tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-55716771821837842202024-03-13T10:36:43.267-07:00A Sip of the Good LifeAnonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12090993236140578742noreply@blogger.comBlogger42125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5571677182183784220.post-74869834822833514422016-06-30T05:54:00.000-07:002016-06-30T05:54:05.086-07:00How to GOMO vs. FOMO<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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When it comes down to spending money, I think of it like this: I could either have that expensive but super cute new top, or I could be screaming along with my best friends to a hot summer concert. (I could also save money too, but where is the fun in that?) <div>
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I would chose the concert almost every single time because of one single phrase: FOMO (Fear Of Missing Out). When you're sitting at home by yourself in your super cute top that nobody is going to see while your besties are off having the time of their lives, you are going to have a MAJOR case of FOMO as you scroll longingly through the following day's Instagram and Facebook posts.</div>
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So, how do you end the FOMO and start the GOMO (Going Out More Often)?<br /><div>
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Thanks to self-service ticketing platforms like Eventbrite, it is far from impossible to spend money on affordable summertime adventures with your guys or gals. Below are some of my tips on how to GOMO vs. FOMO:</div>
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<b>1. Save a little from each paycheck. </b></div>
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Bills, student loans, savings accounts. All of these things want to eat your soul and take away all of your money. It is true, as you get older it is harder to willingly spend money when you have so many things for which you are supposed to save. However, I started setting aside about $25-$50 from each paycheck (depending on how much I have earned) to be put into a "Fun Fund." It is scientifically proven (okay, not really) that everyone should have a Fun Fund in order to prevent insanity and FOMO. Just think about how much extra money you would have set aside to indulge in those summer concerts and random pottery workshops with your friends. </div>
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So. Much. Pottery.</div>
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<b>2. Pick 3</b></div>
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Take time at the beginning of your summer to sit down with your friends and plan out three major events/concerts/activities you all want to do during the summer. Believe me, I am all about being spontaneous, but planning out three events in the very beginning ensures that everyone will at least be at those chosen events together. If you leave everything up to spontaneity, some of your friends may flake or not have the funds (even though you should have plenty in your Fun Fund!). </div>
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<b>3. Not Every GOMO Outing Has to Be Expensive</b></div>
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Sure, concerts can be crazy expensive. However, not every outing you and your friends participate in has to break the bank. Go out for ice cream downtown, go to a movie, take a hike. If you save your money for your "Big 3" events, there are plenty of low-cost and free events you can chose to do with your friends. Remember, this summer is all about making memories and getting out more often! </div>
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There you have it, my friends. With your Fun Fund, your Big 3 and low-cost spontaneous friend dates, you are going to have the best summer ever. Stop complaining about how much you are FOMOing and get out there. LIVE a little! Didn't a famous rapper once say that You Only Live Once? YOLO. Back at it again with the acronyms. </div>
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Until next time,</div>
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Leah</div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12090993236140578742noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5571677182183784220.post-46555291859367718312016-03-10T06:38:00.000-08:002016-03-10T12:09:01.920-08:00$20 Outings When You're Poor AF<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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No matter what stage of life you're in--college, recent graduate, mid-life crisis--we've all been at the point where we look at our bank account and cringe. One moment we thought we struck gold, and then overnight some goblins came in and snatched at you for all you're worth. Meanwhile everyone you know wants to be social (because, you know, life is social and all) and you're cowering indoors like a newfound homebody because you don't want to face the truth: the whole money situation is pretty rough.<br />
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So, what do you do?<br />
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Believe it or not, you don't have to hand over <a href="https://www.personalcapital.com/financial-software" target="_blank">your life savings</a> every time you go on a date or spend quality time with family and friends. In fact, I am going to introduce you to <b>five</b> <b>ideas</b> for things to do for $20 or less in the Maryland area (You can adjust the Maryland suggestions to your own hometown).<br />
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1. Annapolis Strolling + Storm Bros. Ice Cream</h3>
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As Spring rolls right around the corner, it is the perfect time to act like an Annapolis tourist and stroll by the water and soak in some sunshine. Whether you're on a date or hanging with your friends, this day allows you to actually enjoy being with one another. I recommend finishing your Annapolis stroll with some Storm Bros. Ice Cream, which in my humble opinion is the best ice cream Annapolis has to offer. The catch? Storm Bros. only accepts cash - so make sure to hit the ATM before purchasing some creamy goodness. A single scoop is only $2.55, or you can be daring and get a whopping triple scoop for only $4.95 - still staying way under your allowance of $20. You can get a sneak peek of their popular flavors and other dessert options by visiting their website <a href="http://www.stormbros.com/" target="_blank">HERE</a>.</div>
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<b><u>TOTAL: $4.95</u></b></div>
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<br />2. Buy a Kite + Fly It</h3>
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Yes ladies and gentlemen, it is time to bring out your inner child. This idea is perfect for a date because it allows you to unleash your playful side and not worry about the stiffness of the infamous dinner date. Head out to your nearest open field and try not to make a complete fool of yourself, though I can't promise that you won't look ridiculous. </div>
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You can purchase the glorious kite above at <a href="http://www.walmart.com/ip/Premier-Designs-Delta-Kite-Patriotic/44706469" target="_blank">Walmart</a> for only $18. Not only are you staying below your $20 limit, you're making a bold patriotic statement as well. Kudos to you, you proud American.</div>
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<b><u>TOTAL: $18.00</u></b></div>
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3. Patapsco State Park + "Classy Picnic"</h3>
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Maryland is home to a beautiful park named Patapsco. It has some great hiking trails for a variety of difficulty levels, so whether you want to go on a casual stroll or a strenuous adventure, you're set. I am amping up this hiking adventure with what I like to call a "classy picnic." Before you set off on your wilderness adventure, stop at your grocery store for a loaf of French bread, some cheese and wine. At Walmart, a loaf of French bread is only $1.00. You can get a fresh mozzarella ball from BelGioioso for $5.99. Finish your purchase off with a bottle of Fish Eye Pinot Grigio (which pairs very well with mozzarella) for only $11.50. Once you hike to a pretty spot, whip out your "classy picnic" and enjoy.</div>
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<b><u>TOTAL: $18.49</u></b></div>
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<u><br /></u>4. Pretend to be Tourists with a Disposable Camera</h3>
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Maybe you've lived in your town for a long time and never <i>truly</i> experienced it like an outsider or tourist would. This is your chance! Grab your friends or family and sightsee around a local hotspot, even stopping at various landmarks. Before you set out, pick up a disposable camera from a drugstore. The Kodak One-Time Use with Flash costs $7.99. Capture all of your day's memories and then drop the camera off to get them developed. This may seem like a ridiculous idea, but in the end you will have the best time goofing around. For all my scrapbookers: you'll getting a day's worth of scrapbook pictures. Although, I guarantee that somebody in your group will ruin at least 10 of those photos. </div>
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<b><u>TOTAL: $7.99</u></b></div>
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5. Discount Bin Movie Binge Day</h3>
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You probably already know what I'm talking about: those big, five foot deep bins at Walmart overflowing with discounted movies that most people forgot even existed. They may slightly resemble death traps, and you may even be afraid that miniature clowns are hiding at the bottom. Fear not! These forgotten wonders are some of the best finds and will provide the entertainment for your day. I'm talking a MOVIE BINGE DAY! Buy 3 discounted movies from the Walmart movie bin at around $5 a piece. You can check out Walmart's website <a href="http://www.walmart.com/browse/movies-tv/4096?max_price=5" target="_blank">HERE</a> to get a sneak preview of which movies are currently discounted. Then, buy some Pop Secret Movie Theater Butter Popcorn ($2.28 at <a href="http://www.walmart.com/ip/Pop-Secret-Movie-Theater-Butter-Premium-Popcorn-3.2-oz-3-count/22309163?action=product_interest&action_type=title&item_id=22309163&placement_id=irs-106-t1&strategy=PWVUB&visitor_id&category=&client_guid=72c274aa-19c7-4975-9248-ef1275be5f96&customer_id_enc&config_id=106&parent_item_id=27598553&parent_anchor_item_id=27598553&guid=a96fc80c-a959-4644-a235-26d7f4b1d579&bucket_id=irsbucketdefault&beacon_version=1.0.1&findingMethod=p13n" target="_blank">Walmart</a>) and a pack of Skittles ($2.55 at <a href="http://www.dollargeneral.com/product/index.jsp?productId=61568756&gclid=CJuo7_untssCFdgegQodMXgDqg" target="_blank">Dollar General</a>). Now sit back and relax, because you've got the perfect movie day ahead of you.</div>
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<b><u>TOTAL: $19.83</u></b></div>
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I hope these suggestions help you venture away from your cave of a home and towards quality time with the people you love. There are so many things you can do without breaking the bank, so get out there and try them! </div>
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Or follow the example of Harry and Hermione and have an awkward dance party in your living room.</div>
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Until next time,</div>
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Leah</div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12090993236140578742noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5571677182183784220.post-39675266556110817552015-12-10T04:38:00.000-08:002015-12-10T04:38:46.433-08:00Unfortunate Subway Interactions: Overcoming Awkward Eye Contact<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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You've done it. You've passed the point of no return. You made eye contact with the person standing across from you not only once, not only twice, but <b>THREE </b>inexcusable times. It's over, right? You should just change your name, move to Antarctica and live among the polar bears.<br />
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<b>WRONG.</b> Don't pack your snow shoes just yet. This is one of many unpleasant interactions you will positively encounter when traveling via subway in New York City and all of them can be resolved (with the help of <i>New Girl</i> GIFs).<br />
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The Triple Eye Contact</h2>
We're starting off this Unfortunate Subway Interactions series with a basic, everyday subway embarrassment. If you have traveled by this underground means of transportation before, you will already know that the game of finding a place to look while going about your ride is not only difficult, it's downright impossible. No matter how hard you try, there will come a time when you accidentally make eye contact with someone.<br />
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The first time, you'll both probably look away instantly, embarrassed that you were caught looking at another human being. It is an unspoken code of the NYC subway system that you don't look at anyone, ever.<br />
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The second time you lock eyes with the same individual, the awkwardness has escalated tremendously and your gaze may linger on their's a second longer as you give a sympathetic smile that says "I am an absolute idiot and a horrible New Yorker. Please forgive me and go about your day." Then you'll immediately look away once more.<br />
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If you make the unforgivable third eye contact, (as I did on the subway yesterday) you will find yourself grimacing in their direction, mad at both yourself for making contact again and at the other person for continuing to make contact with you as well. At this point, you should just turn around and face the other direction.<br />
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So, <b>how do you avoid this</b>?<br />
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<i>"Oh, I know! I'll just stare straight ahead of me!"</i> This is a rookie move, my friend. Without a doubt, there will be a fellow rider standing directly across from you no matter where you're standing (especially during rush hour traffic when everyone is packed like sardines). This person will think you are hardcore staring into their soul, and that makes the ride a little less comfortable for everyone involved. As humans, we are naturals at being easily distracted, so even if you've found that one spot on the wall across from you where nobody is standing, you will still make eye contact with another individual if anyone moves, falls over, coughs, sings, chants or snores.<br />
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<i>"Okay, then. I'll stare up at the ceiling!"</i> If you're not worried about people thinking you are an absolute lunatic, then feel free to use this suggestion. However, I have personally tried this method myself and thought I had a broken neck for the rest of the day. You've been warned.<br />
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<i>"Fine. I'll stare at the ground."</i> For my fellow ladies with long hair, if you don't have it tied back somehow, your hair will fall in front of your face and you will look like the creature from <i>The Ring</i>. I have also found that the people around you think you are staring at their feet and will glare at you as they shuffle around and try to escape your downwards gaze. Again, as long as you don't care what people think (which you shouldn't, most of them are self-absorbed New Yorkers) and aren't afraid of being hated by everyone standing near you with deformed feet, feel free to use this method.<br />
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<i>"Can I at least read the advertisements?"</i> Yes! This may seem like a simple solution, but this method actually requires strategic planning. There aren't going to be many advertisements in your eye range, especially on a train during rush hour. So, your plan of attack is to pretend that you are the slowest reader in all of human existence. Stare at a single advertisement for at least five minutes before moving onto the next one. This way, you will keep yourself occupied and won't be tempted to make awkward eye contact with others.<br />
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Whatever you do, <b>avoid letting them talk to you at all costs</b>. Sometimes when you make awkward eye contact, people see this as an invitation to communicate verbally with you. If they start to ramble to you on the subway...well, that's another unfortunate subway interaction altogether (to be continued).<br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-IXtnnmtp7hc/VmlPE69teCI/AAAAAAAABU8/zLo1YnXJvhU/s1600/6356803590341455531025037844_giphy.gif" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="225" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-IXtnnmtp7hc/VmlPE69teCI/AAAAAAAABU8/zLo1YnXJvhU/s400/6356803590341455531025037844_giphy.gif" width="400" /></a></div>
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If all else fails, just do what I do and bring a book. I'm usually so invested in the story that I almost miss my subway stop. #Casual.<br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-LWM4Pf0nSA0/VmlP0zZ1S5I/AAAAAAAABVA/484F4a6gWOk/s1600/nickmillerstories.gif" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-LWM4Pf0nSA0/VmlP0zZ1S5I/AAAAAAAABVA/484F4a6gWOk/s1600/nickmillerstories.gif" /></a></div>
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Until next time,<br />
Leah<br />
<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12090993236140578742noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5571677182183784220.post-57617598291690513652015-10-09T20:37:00.000-07:002015-10-11T17:21:15.742-07:00"Welcome to New York!" Oh, Thanks, TSwift.<b><u>**Author's Note:</u></b> I am listening to Taylor Swift's "Welcome to New York" while writing this post. It may or may not be on repeat. It seemed appropriate.<br />
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Four weeks ago today, I moved to <span style="font-size: large;"><b>New York City</b></span>. Um, what.<br />
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Just the casual view from my apartment. NBD.</span></div>
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I'm sitting here trying to process the idea of summing up four weeks into one blog post and unfortunately I've come to this realization: you simply won't know everything that happened to me in the weird, fun, bizarre, frustrating, eye-opening, heartbreaking, amazing weeks I have had thus far.<br />
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But I'll give it my best shot.<br />
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Four weeks can sound like a short or long amount of time, depending on how you look at it. And let me be frank... a lot has happened in these four weeks.<br />
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Four weeks seems like a long time in terms of my job. It has given me the time to grow as a Social Media Intern for The Knot wedding magazine and exponentially increase engagements and followers (no big deal or anything). It has given me time to learn what works and what doesn't. So basically I'm a Kung Fu master when it comes to social media. Just kidding. I'm literally a 22 year-old post grad living in a brand new city. The most I've mastered is how to make a bowl of cereal.<br />
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Actually, now that I think about it I'm pretty sure my milk is expired, so I guess we should renege my cereal expertise award. I'll settle for a bronze star.<br />
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But I have learned what "adulting" is like in the professional working world, and (I must admit) I am pretty much loving it every single minute. It's like I'm a real person now. Kind of. Sometimes. Only on Tuesdays.<br />
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Here is me pretending to adult at work:<br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-15U6NGO5pME/Vhh_dyrWn8I/AAAAAAAABPM/Tpj6PByJGjI/s1600/IMG_3958.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-15U6NGO5pME/Vhh_dyrWn8I/AAAAAAAABPM/Tpj6PByJGjI/s320/IMG_3958.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">The woman made my ID, looked down at it and said "Sorry 'bout it." I legitimately look like a bandit.</span></div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-xL8mqGjBkvo/Vhh_eW0-wEI/AAAAAAAABPU/XuQOjowRypE/s1600/IMG_4033.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-xL8mqGjBkvo/Vhh_eW0-wEI/AAAAAAAABPU/XuQOjowRypE/s320/IMG_4033.JPG" width="180" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Adults take selfies too, right?</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">And on Thursdays, we drink. Thirsty Thursday @ the office, ladies and gents. Literally everyone gets drunk and goes home early.</span></div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Gv26j9uhWQ0/Vhh_dtzw1nI/AAAAAAAABPI/9HABL2RyGyU/s1600/IMG_3944.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Gv26j9uhWQ0/Vhh_dtzw1nI/AAAAAAAABPI/9HABL2RyGyU/s320/IMG_3944.JPG" width="180" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">(Featuring Social Media Intern #2 Abby) We actually put this on The Knot's Snapchat account that I run. I'm really not sorry about it. 3 strangers saved it to their phones. I'm somewhat concerned.</span></div>
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Four weeks can also go by in a blink of an eye. Wasn't it just yesterday that I was with my best friend from home watching our daily dose of The Bachelorette? We would end every night saying, "See you tomorrow," because we would, in fact, be seeing each other the next day. And the next day. And the one after that. It's weird to be without her. I also recently lost a friend and I can't seem to find where he went. Wasn't it just last week when we were talking and everything was fine? I don't know just how we screwed it up. If you end up finding him, be sure to let me know. I miss him.<br />
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Despite the trying events I've put up with during these four weeks, they have challenged me to "find myself" (as cheesy as that sounds). I literally went to a movie BY MYSELF. It was the most freeing experience. I managed to dart in and out of the theater without people realizing that I was a complete loner (I'm in my third month of CIA spy training). I wandered around the city and even found a bookstore that I fell in love with. If you know me, you'll know this is a very bad thing because I read more than a normal person should. "It's okay," I told myself. "Just browse and don't buy anything today. You have to budget!"<br />
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I left the bookstore with three books that day.<br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-hGLorSf93wM/Vhh85AIJSEI/AAAAAAAABOo/_Utu4hd-yio/s1600/IMG_3930.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-hGLorSf93wM/Vhh85AIJSEI/AAAAAAAABOo/_Utu4hd-yio/s400/IMG_3930.JPG" width="225" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">I like to call this masterpiece: "Money Pit"</span></div>
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In the heroic quest to find myself, I also decided to buy myself Sprinkles cupcakes one day, because why not? I wanted four. At the same time, I knew the workers would judge me if I straight up ordered four cupcakes for myself, so I pretended like I was buying them for my work. </div>
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"What flavors would you like?" the guy asked me as he brought out one of the boxes. I was literally about to spend $15 on cupcakes for myself. </div>
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"Hm, let me see what flavors my CO-WORKERS want because I'm getting them for WORK," I emphasized as I pretended to look at a "text" from my "co-workers." I was actually just flipping back and forth through the apps on my home screen. Then I proceeded to order four cupcakes for myself. No ragrets. Not even one letter. </div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-BWLoxJoWrEc/Vhh_E5C_88I/AAAAAAAABO8/KK68a-zgx84/s1600/IMG_3951.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-BWLoxJoWrEc/Vhh_E5C_88I/AAAAAAAABO8/KK68a-zgx84/s320/IMG_3951.JPG" width="318" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Ignore my special, deformed friend in the top right. He had a rough night.</span></div>
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Things are continuing to look up for me. Something cool I was able to do yesterday was attend a product event at Ladurée. You know, the events that only the best-of-the-best's get to go to in order to publish articles and promote them. Serious stuff. My boss had me go and pretend to be a full-time employee in order to learn more about the new bridal collection for which they were releasing new cakes and venue options. I networked like nobody's business. I became friends with the coolest lady who runs the wedding blog <a href="http://fabyoubliss.com/" target="_blank">Fab You Bliss</a>. She was originally a wedding photographer until she found she was making more money with her blog. I truly envied her. Overall, people thought I was really cool (at least I'm 85% sure). It was kind of a big deal for me. <b><u>ALSO</u></b>: I learned that Americans spell <b>macaron </b>wrong. It's not macaroon people. Stop with the double o's. </div>
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Check it out: </div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-E0bEHq1aepI/VhiBj3fPtaI/AAAAAAAABPw/Rug8YXtb_nk/s1600/IMG_4030.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-E0bEHq1aepI/VhiBj3fPtaI/AAAAAAAABPw/Rug8YXtb_nk/s320/IMG_4030.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">The new wedding cakes from Ladurée's bridal collection.</span></div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-8H1XTlNuUqE/VhiBl2GjRzI/AAAAAAAABP4/FNZcR8R-xX0/s1600/FullSizeRender%2B%25281%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="318" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-8H1XTlNuUqE/VhiBl2GjRzI/AAAAAAAABP4/FNZcR8R-xX0/s320/FullSizeRender%2B%25281%2529.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">A really cool box. It's new. It holds one macaron. </span></div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/--oPgyOtSoDU/VhiBl6MaFGI/AAAAAAAABQA/fplebhqILiY/s1600/FullSizeRender%2B%25282%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="319" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/--oPgyOtSoDU/VhiBl6MaFGI/AAAAAAAABQA/fplebhqILiY/s320/FullSizeRender%2B%25282%2529.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">A closeup of one of the cakes made entirely of macarons.</span></div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Uo9AzF6itsE/VhiBl6W-WiI/AAAAAAAABP8/6-rvGNIaOlc/s1600/FullSizeRender%2B%25283%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="319" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Uo9AzF6itsE/VhiBl6W-WiI/AAAAAAAABP8/6-rvGNIaOlc/s320/FullSizeRender%2B%25283%2529.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Cake topper from one of the three-tiered wedding cakes.</span></div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-xXZBcyIXzxQ/VhiBmMHQKEI/AAAAAAAABQE/YoAkJL9OpF8/s1600/FullSizeRender%2B%25284%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="315" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-xXZBcyIXzxQ/VhiBmMHQKEI/AAAAAAAABQE/YoAkJL9OpF8/s320/FullSizeRender%2B%25284%2529.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Cool boxes. They hold macarons. Also stackable. </span></div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-zjtdWHG9k7w/VhiBmVrKgtI/AAAAAAAABQI/z78FIJXpaRI/s1600/FullSizeRender%2B%25285%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="319" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-zjtdWHG9k7w/VhiBmVrKgtI/AAAAAAAABQI/z78FIJXpaRI/s320/FullSizeRender%2B%25285%2529.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">A traditional French macaron cake (According to the French marketing woman. She seemed legit).</span></div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-SMP-h1G-WQE/VhiBmYJKikI/AAAAAAAABQM/jF6NTRnRNnk/s1600/FullSizeRender%2B%25286%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="319" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-SMP-h1G-WQE/VhiBmYJKikI/AAAAAAAABQM/jF6NTRnRNnk/s320/FullSizeRender%2B%25286%2529.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Pretty mini cakes! It's pink, what's not to like?</span></div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-qd17GDwJxdg/VhiBmQ8pnJI/AAAAAAAABQQ/0JDOvuz0ZQo/s1600/FullSizeRender.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-qd17GDwJxdg/VhiBmQ8pnJI/AAAAAAAABQQ/0JDOvuz0ZQo/s320/FullSizeRender.jpg" width="319" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">My favorite cake from the event. Gorgeous.</span></div>
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On September 8th I thought I was moving to Los Angeles. I had a roommate, she found an apartment and we were going to move in October. The next day I got a job with The Knot. I moved up two days later and found an apartment the same day. It has been a whirlwind of an adventure ever since. </div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-qRhb1Tcuqc4/VhiIfNn1zNI/AAAAAAAABRQ/JtvX0a6b40A/s1600/IMG_3887.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-qRhb1Tcuqc4/VhiIfNn1zNI/AAAAAAAABRQ/JtvX0a6b40A/s320/IMG_3887.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Still a view from my apartment. I will never cease to be amazed by what is surrounding me.</span></div>
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But, hey, it's only been four weeks. There's still many more to go. I can't wait to fill you in on the shenanigans I get myself into. After all, it's me we're talking about. And that's an adventure in itself.</div>
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Until next time,</div>
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Leah</div>
<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12090993236140578742noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5571677182183784220.post-61071691217477479282015-09-04T05:44:00.004-07:002015-09-04T05:44:28.519-07:00Why I Shouldn't Be Watching Horror Movies<div style="text-align: center;">
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I created a mental "Horror Movie Checklist" last night when I was lying frantically in my bed unable to sleep because of something my mother told me.<br />
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I was watching Paranormal Activity for the first time yesterday, and my mother said, "Oh my goodness I will never watch that. When you watch that, you open yourself up to the demonic spirits."<br />
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Crap. As I lay there, I realized that the spirits and ghosts were definitely onto me now.<br />
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She continued, "The more afraid that you are of them, the more you are opening yourself up to them."<br />
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I was practically hyperventilating in my bed. My ceiling fan rustled some papers in my bedroom and that's when I knew it was all over. I was never getting to sleep. This whole situation is ironic, because my favorite TV show is Supernatural, and I have yet to be haunted by any demonic spirits (knock on wood).<br />
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So, as I said, last night's experience led me to create a mental checklist while watching scary movies in order to prevent another episode of "Help: Leah Can't Sleep." A simple list of just four points, this is my thought process as I lay in bed after watching a scary movie.<br />
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1. It's Just a Movie<br />
This may seem like a no brainer, but it's very difficult to do sometimes. Especially when you watch a creepy girl with black hair crawling through your television in "The Ring," or when a mysterious hand comes out of the girl's head in the shower in "The Grudge." I'm going to be honest, I had to do continuous circles while showering for an entire month after watching "The Grudge," and I kept my hands on my head at all times. Merely safety precautions, of course. I clearly knew it was just a movie. Totally.<br />
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<img height="168" src="http://31.media.tumblr.com/7bbed2a5d3b545d5fcc975bdb6791515/tumblr_inline_np2y1rU6iM1sm1i1x_500.gif" width="320" /></div>
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2. Other People Have Survived After Watching "Insert Horror Movie Title Here"<br />
My brother was the one who told me about "Paranormal Activity." He's still healthy and kicking, and I don't believe he is currently being haunted as far as I can tell. In fact, my brother has seen the entire "Paranormal Activity" series. He might not be afraid of them, but when the first film is claimed to be the scariest movie of all time, I'd like to respectfully disagree.<br />
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3. If I Die Tonight, I Have Lived a Wonderful Life<br />
If the monsters or creepy ghosts from the movie come to life and bring me to my doom, I've decided that I have lived a great life so I can't complain too much. So long, and thanks for all the fish.<br />
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4. I'm Watching a Comedy Next Time<br />
Yep, definitely not going through this again.<br />
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Until next time,<br />
LeahAnonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12090993236140578742noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5571677182183784220.post-1001176920588493482015-08-12T19:50:00.000-07:002015-08-12T20:59:51.737-07:0010 Tips for Dating in Your 20sLet's face it: we've all had our share of scares and "wtf" moments while dating. It's inevitable. Nobody has it together in their 20s. I'm still exploring and discovering things I like and dislike in relationships, and I still crack up with my best girlfriends over the latest "oh no" moments when it comes to men.<br />
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It's been a while since my last blog post, so let me refresh you all with who I am. I am 22 years old. I am unemployed. I am about to move to a new city across the country, yet technically I am still homeless without an apartment. Oh, and I will have an entirely new sea of men to explore, for which I am particularly enthusiastic. </div>
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In honor of starting this exciting yet horrifying new chapter of my life, my best friends Emily and Victoria and I have compiled a list of some vital dating tips to get you through your 20s. So, sit back, get ready to laugh at our misfortunes, and prepare to learn a thing or two about how to survive dating in your 20s (and how I've decided to embrace being single). </div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b>1. If he is interested in you, he will text you.</b></span></div>
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<img src="http://www.jen-goes-zen.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/07/hes-not-that-into-you-movie-quotes-7.gif" /></div>
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And no, Snapchat does NOT count. Ok, I admit that this was partially taken from the movie "He's Just Not That Into You," but I have learned this the hard way. I have always made excuses for why a guy hasn't texted me. "Oh, maybe he is sick." "I think he's really busy with work this week." "He probably died." If a guy truly likes you, he would be interested in talking with you. Bottom line. A snapchat takes less than 2 seconds to take and is usually sent out to a mass audience. If getting a snapchat from the person you're interested in makes you feel appreciated, I'm sure the other 15 people he/she sent that to must be feeling the same way.</div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b>2. You can't create chemistry over time.</b></span></div>
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<img src="https://d26oc3sg82pgk3.cloudfront.net/files/media/filer_private/2013/10/21/08-disinterested.gif" /></div>
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If you are on a date with someone and you find yourself wanting it to end, you're simply not into it. This may seem like a no-brainer, but sometimes people try to be polite and find themselves hoping to find chemistry somewhere down the line. Don't let yourself get swept up into the idea of dating someone solely based on the idea that you will be dating someone. If there is no chemistry, don't go on a second date to "just see" if there's chemistry later on. It won't be there.</div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b>3. Are we on the same boat?</b></span></div>
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<img src="http://i0.wp.com/paperfury.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/12/tumblr_n8izmfwDJQ1tfo43go1_500.gif" /></div>
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"Some idiot ended a relationship with me through a letter. I was very confused because I didn't think there was any kind of official relationship to begin with." (-Emily) It is important to make sure you are on the same page with the person you are dating. Establish clear expectations with your relationship in order to avoid awkward moments, such as when someone tries to break off a relationship that never existed. Yikes.</div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b>4. "Get out, right now, it's the end of you and me." - JoJo</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b> </b></span><img src="http://25.media.tumblr.com/tumblr_lqpffrmoXB1qht8uqo1_500.gif" /></div>
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Don't be afraid to end things when it isn't working out. Don't let the other person guilt you into staying with a relationship that is sinking faster than the Titanic. Some horror stories include a guy that told his girlfriend that he had cancer in order to make her stay in the relationship. Needless to say it still didn't work out, and he had to deal with the awkwardness that follows when your ex-girlfriend finds out that you are not sick with cancer. If you do not see a long-term relationship, don't bother continuing to waste your time or their time. </div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b>5. Three is not the magic number</b></span></div>
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<img src="https://kristenchuber.files.wordpress.com/2012/09/harry16.jpeg" /></div>
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If a guy brings a friend to your date, this could mean one of two things. 1) It's not a date in his mind or 2) he views you only as a friend or someone he wants to get into his bed. He shouldn't even have to ask if it's okay to bring a friend, because if he was really into you he would want to focus on spending time with you and not juggling his attention. Sorry, but that's the cold-hearted truth. </div>
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<b><span style="font-size: large;">6. Fool me twice, shame on me.</span></b></div>
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<img src="https://s-media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/736x/94/c3/dd/94c3ddfa75b2ac0fb54c2add48125446.jpg" /></div>
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"There's an old saying 'fool me once, shame on you. Fool me twice, shame on me.' Don't let anyone make a fool out of you. If he screwed you over once, okay maybe be forgiving. If he screws up twice? Don't give him a third opportunity because it is likely he will do the same exact thing again and again until you stop letting him." (-Victoria)</div>
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<b><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></b></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b>7. If it's going down, I'm yelling "TINDER!"</b></span></div>
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<img alt="disgusted" src="http://www.reactiongifs.com/r/dsgstd.gif" /></div>
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In this day and age, people are more frequently turning to apps and online dating websites to find that possible connection. While I am in no way diminishing the success of online dating, it is important to be careful and stay smart while using such services. Pictures can often be misleading, so when getting to know someone via the internet or a dating app just realize that the person may look different when you meet in person. "One time I matched with an attractive man and went to the bar to meet up and he looked completely different. He was also half of my height." (-Emily) Awkward.</div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b>8. Comfort level: 0</b></span></div>
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<img src="https://media.giphy.com/media/gObBYZfkAHyIE/giphy.gif" /></div>
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You want to feel comfortable with the person you are dating, right? You want to be yourself and honest with this person. Here's a tip to decide how comfortable you are with someone: if you aren't comfortable enough to tell the person you are dating when they have spinach stuck in their teeth, then you are not comfortable enough to date them. "I went on a date with someone and didn't tell them they had spinach stuck in their teeth, and looking back it never would have worked out." (-Emily) It may seem like a silly guideline, but it helped me determine with whom I was just being polite and with whom I was actually connecting. <i>Plot twist:</i> this guideline can also mean you like this person A LOT and are too nervous to tell them because you don't want to be rude. </div>
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<b><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></b></div>
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<b><span style="font-size: large;">9. All the Single Ladies</span></b></div>
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<img src="http://media.giphy.com/media/ZWpQQyxX0TI0E/giphy.gif" /></div>
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"One of the newest trends seems to be settling down and starting a family when you're young. My advice? Live your twenties to the fullest. I'm not saying you should break up with the man you think is the love of your life, but marriage entirely changed the dynamic of a relationship. Go ahead and spend your twenties together if that's what you would like, but don't feel rushed to get married. If he's the one, he's still going to be by your side 5+ years down the road. If not? Screw him. Take advantage of your youth and explore the world, get to know your adult self, set new goals for yourself, etc. Take this time to be selfish and love yourself! And don't be afraid to be single, either." (-Victoria)</div>
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<b><span style="font-size: large;">10. If it's meant to happen, it will.</span></b></div>
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<img src="http://collegecandy.files.wordpress.com/2013/02/tumblr_mi35zmlgau1r7oaheo1_500.gif" /></div>
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At the end of the day, I believe that if you are meant to be with someone, you will be. When you find that person with whom you can 100% be yourself, make weird jokes, laugh way too loudly, tell all of your secrets to, be unashamed of who you are, admit all of your weird fetishes, and miss immensely whenever they are away, then you'll know. The timing is never perfect, and you usually find said person in the most inconvenient of times. However, when you find this person, don't let timing or other circumstances make you give up. Don't let them go. If it's meant to happen, it will. </div>
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As for me and my best friends (who graciously helped author this blog post), we are happily single at this time. They're my people. You know, the ones with whom I can 100% be myself, make weird jokes, laugh way too loudly, tell all of my secrets to, be unashamed of who I am, admit all of my weird fetishes, and miss immensely whenever they are away. We have learned the art of being happily single.</div>
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Until next time,</div>
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Leah, Emily and Victoria</div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12090993236140578742noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5571677182183784220.post-63433909378685467812015-01-30T01:58:00.000-08:002015-01-30T02:03:16.493-08:00Days 6 and 7: Leah Finds Luck in a Hopeless Place<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-pAgLdWlmkfo/VMtULci5mUI/AAAAAAAABJQ/WMn_-azC95c/s1600/IMG_1988.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-pAgLdWlmkfo/VMtULci5mUI/AAAAAAAABJQ/WMn_-azC95c/s1600/IMG_1988.JPG" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
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On Wednesday I learned a couple valuable lessons that most people should keep close to heart:<br />
1) People with good morals still exist in this world<br />
2) When good karma comes your way, make sure to return the favor.<br />
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A group of seven of us took to the slopes and spent the majority of the day skiing or snowboarding. Seeing as the few times I tried snowboarding I spent the majority of my time scooting down the hill on my butt, I stuck with what I know (skiing). I truly enjoyed having a day of exercise and fun, a day not spent holed up in a dark theater (though don’t get me wrong, I have been loving my times in the theater just as much). Though I haven’t been skiing in six years, I was ecstatic to be able to get back onto a snowy mountain and work my way back to the level of skiing I used to brag about.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-DCHWxgBCIg0/VMtTaYKjI5I/AAAAAAAABIw/AGnEZIY7CHM/s1600/IMG_2001.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-DCHWxgBCIg0/VMtTaYKjI5I/AAAAAAAABIw/AGnEZIY7CHM/s1600/IMG_2001.JPG" height="320" width="180" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Standing above a Black Diamond</td></tr>
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Unfortunately I never made it back to a level of skiing that was worthy of bragging. In fact, I wiped out two times too many, and my knees hate me for it. The first time I wiped out I had been skiing down the slope gracefully, impressed that I was doing so well, when I realized that my legs were tired. Boom, it was all over. I flipped over my skis two times, causing one ski to fly off and the other ski landed in a way that caused my knee to bend unnaturally. My poles were easily twenty feet away. I was completely alone on the slope. I laid there for a few minutes before realizing that I had no feeling in one of my hands because I dropped my glove off the chairlift on the way up.<br />
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Life: 1. Leah: 0.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Too foggy to see; probably why I fell the second time</td></tr>
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Since we would be buying lunch and I was unsure if we would need our licenses for the rentals, I brought my credit card and license with me in the zipped pocket of my ski jacket, which also happened to house my cell phone. It seemed like a safe place to house two of the most important items that enable me to get around and function in society. However, this assumption was entirely wrong. During that first wipe out on a "Green" slope called "Homerun," I took my cell phone out to snap a quick picture of the beautiful scenery after gathering myself, not realizing both my credit card and license had escaped in the process.<br />
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Of course this would happen to me, I'm Bad Luck Leah. We were all having such a great day and I didn't want to let these circumstances ruin the rest of my ski day, but I was grumpy and had no idea how I would replace them. I felt bad because people on my trip aren't used to seeing a version of Leah that isn't smiling or laughing 24/7, but I was completely bummed about these turn of events. However, I am pleased to report that as my friends and I were leaving the ski area, I received a call from the lost and found. A woman found my credit card and license on the “Homerun” course and was wonderful enough to turn them in! I have decided to take my good karma and return in when the time comes, because it is important to spread the happiness around.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sigma Kappa takes on Utah</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Utah mountain selfie</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Holly and I taking a break on the slopes</td></tr>
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Today was another day of movie watching, starting off with the film "True Story," starring James Franco and Jonah Hill. Personally I thought it was okay, but it definitely intrigued me to research more on the relationship between Christian Longo, who was convicted of murdering his family, and Michael Finkel, New York Times reporter. Personally I thought Jonah Hill was exceptional in this film, further demonstrating his acting abilities and range.<br />
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In the afternoon I presented the research I've completed at Sundance to my classmates and J. I chose to explore the question: Do actors drive the success of movies? With the obsession and fixation on celebrities that is especially seen at the festival where an enormous amount of well-known industry personnel are walking around, I thought this was an important topic to cover in determining how a movie is cast and whether it determines its success. I thought I was clever and titled my research "Do A-Lists Make A-Plus Movies?" It is clever. You cannot deny it. Overall I think I did fairly well on the presentation and enjoyed hearing everyone else's work too.<br />
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I also saw "The Witch" again tonight with my friends as promised. I'm still scarred and it still scared me immensely. So that was a lot of fun.<br />
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Until next time,<br />
Leah<br />
<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12090993236140578742noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5571677182183784220.post-88578804056069419432015-01-27T23:54:00.000-08:002015-01-27T23:54:10.375-08:00Days 4 & 5: I Got Sick At SundanceThe most unfortunate and dread thing happened to me while at Sundance: I got sick.<br />
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My friends quarantined me, suggesting that I not attend dinner outings and proposing me to sleep in rather than attend an 8:30 a.m. screening of "The Tribe," a Ukrainian sign language film (Fun fact: there are no subtitles for "The Tribe." It is only in sign language. Nobody would go with me.).<br />
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I don't know how I got sick either because I have one of the best immune systems that I know. However, I took one for the team and even gave my friend my bottle of Purell to keep on her side of the bed since we are sharing one and I'm sure she'd rather not catch the horrid sickness. <br />
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Despite being sick, I woke up on Monday with a burst of energy because at 8:30 a.m. I was seeing the film I had been dying to see at Sundance: "Z for Zachariah" starring Chris Pine and Margot Robbie. Despite one moment in the film that had me clutching at my heart (I won't give away what happens, don't worry. But it may have something to do with my boy Chris.), I was most excited for the Q&A portion of the screening because I wanted to see Chris Pine again and hear him talk about his experience with the film. However, to my disappointment, Chris nor Robbie nor anyone else was to be seen at the Q&A portion other than the director. I was absolutely devastated. Clearly Chris didn't care about reuniting with me one final time before our lives took us in separate directions. What a pity.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-lIPBkhSpVg4/VMiU2xwzuAI/AAAAAAAABH0/dmcQlMpF7xM/s1600/IMG_1982.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-lIPBkhSpVg4/VMiU2xwzuAI/AAAAAAAABH0/dmcQlMpF7xM/s1600/IMG_1982.JPG" height="320" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Watching "Z for Zachariah" at the Eccles Theater</td></tr>
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That night I managed to get onto the wait-list for the documentary "The Wolfpack." It was directed by Crystal Moselle and followed the lives of the Angulo brothers who learn how to interact with the outside world after living primarily inside of their Lower East Side apartment for the majority of their lives. I was unsure of whether I truly liked the documentary, but I realized that I loved the film once experiencing the Q&A portion, during which each of the brothers featured in the film came onto the stage with the director. There were two goofball brothers in the center who wore sunglasses during the Q&A and pretended to be British with convincing accents. I decided that if we ever meet in person we will be the best of friends.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-3QWGjQCs9wk/VMiU2-lRVwI/AAAAAAAABHs/k38QzC0ixr4/s1600/IMG_1984.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-3QWGjQCs9wk/VMiU2-lRVwI/AAAAAAAABHs/k38QzC0ixr4/s1600/IMG_1984.JPG" height="320" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Angulo brothers at the Q&A of "The Wolfpack"</td></tr>
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This morning was the morning I was supposed to see my wonderful Ukrainian sign language film, but there was absolutely no way I was going to make it. I actually thought I was dying. Okay, that's a bit of an exaggeration, but still. Sickness is not becoming of me. Instead, I slept in until 11:15 a.m., which was the most amount of sleep I've gotten in over a week. I have gotten 2-3 hours of sleep per night while at Sundance, so I guess it makes sense that my immune system would break down on me. I'm still incredibly mad and bitter that I'm sick.<br />
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I refused to be a hermit and spend my entire day in our mansion of a house (seriously, it's huge), so I wait-listed for the film "The Witch" at 3:30 p.m. I thought it was going to be a slight thriller, nothing too scary. It was also one of the films I had been most looking forward to at Sundance.<br />
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Oh. My. Goodness. "The Witch" was one of the most horrifying films I've seen in a long time, and the end of the film left me visibly shaking in my seat. I almost started to cry, but I held myself together remembering that I attended this film alone and didn't want to look like some crazy loner chick crying in shock because of a Sundance film. However, it featured some of the most twisted events to ever occur in a horror film, such as the gruesome death of babies and dogs. I will forever be haunted by this film. The Q&A portion of the film took some of the edge off of the film, until the director was questioned as to why he ended the film the way he did (which was crazy horrific, might I add. Absolutely terrifying and twisted ending). The director responded,"Because I wanted a happy ending." At that point I realized the director is an absolute nutcase and should probably look into therapy options.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-YM_GHeniekk/VMiU4Z2BOqI/AAAAAAAABH8/AtcDHuOsGNQ/s1600/IMG_1985.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-YM_GHeniekk/VMiU4Z2BOqI/AAAAAAAABH8/AtcDHuOsGNQ/s1600/IMG_1985.JPG" height="320" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Q&A for "The Witch"</td></tr>
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So of course I am going to see "The Witch" again with my friends on Thursday night. Happy Sundance.<br />
<br />
Until next time,<br />
LeahAnonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12090993236140578742noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5571677182183784220.post-72961781354709036512015-01-25T23:35:00.000-08:002015-01-25T23:35:01.448-08:00Day 3: I Am Friends with Obi-Wan KenobiI decided today that the Sundance Film Festival wait list officially hates me.<br />
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It is at times like these when I am so incredibly envious of my fellow classmates who managed to purchase the correct package for the festival, allowing them to fast pass the ticket lines for screenings. I, on the other hand, ended up with the "student package," which simply provides me with an abundance of vouchers that can be exchanged for tickets. And that is only if you manage to get onto the wait list. This morning...I did not.<br />
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I also found out that I am not allowed to use my vouchers until January 28th, so the vouchers that I exchanged in the wait list line up until this point were illegal, so to speak. I apparently like to fight the Sundance law.<br />
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I intended on seeing the film "Mississippi Grind," starring Ryan Reynolds (swoon) and Sienna Miller. However, seeing as I don't have the best of luck in the world, I did not get on the wait list, which I don't understand because I have some pretty speedy thumbs when it comes to clicking. I'd like to thank our generation of texters for that wonderful ability. Instead, I ended up on the wait list for "Sleeping with Other People," starring Jason Sudeikis and Alison Brie. Nobody else was attending that particular movie this morning so *gulp* I was forced to go to the movies <i>alone. </i><br />
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I am SO HAPPY I went to see "Sleeping with Other People" this morning. It was hands down my favorite film so far at the festival, which was classified by the director as a raunchy version of "When Harry Met Sally." It was an honest, realistic look at the relationship between two best friends that end of falling in love with each other. It sounds typical, but it was completely new. Each moment was not predictable and each of these unpredictable moments had me falling out of my chair in laughter. Which, I might add, I was extremely self-conscious about because I was seeing this film alone and everyone else around me was in huge friend groups. Every time they looked at me when I burst out laughing, I threw back some shade with a look that stated, "Don't judge me, fool."<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-mN-Ty5gIKyo/VMXs74_32oI/AAAAAAAABHU/c8OsqJjCWdA/s1600/IMG_1965.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-mN-Ty5gIKyo/VMXs74_32oI/AAAAAAAABHU/c8OsqJjCWdA/s1600/IMG_1965.JPG" height="320" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Jason Sudeikis and Alison Brie at the Q&A of "Sleeping with Other People"</td></tr>
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I also ended up snagging a wait list spot for the PREMIERE of "Last Days in the Desert," starring Ewan McGregor who portrays both Jesus and Lucifer. This was one of my most highly anticipated films at Sundance and I can honestly say the viewing experience did not disappoint. The movie started off a bit slow, with about ten minutes of scenes that showed Ewan simply wandering around in the desert. However, it was the perfect beginning to a powerful film about the humanistic side of Jesus when He walked on the Earth that was filled to the brim with symbolic scenes and images.<br />
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The film also featured some humorous moments. For example, when Jesus and the boy protagonist of the film were traveling to get water, they came across a carcass in the desert and the boy just rips the loudest fart I've ever heard. Jesus was <i>cracking up.</i> I could not stop laughing for the next five minutes and I came out of the film with the conclusion: Jesus thinks farts are funny too.<br />
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Ewan McGregor happened to sit two rows behind me during the premiere, and when he walked up onto the stage to complete the Q&A portion of the screening with the director, we were so close that I could have held his hand. I didn't though, just so we're clear, but I could have. And it was tempting.<br />
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Basically I spent my day with Obi-Wan Kenobi, and everyone reading this should be extremely jealous. He did, however, forget his lightsaber. That was disappointing because he could have easily been attacked, whether by screaming fans or the Dark Side.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-WqCJn4ztlyo/VMXs7X-lOCI/AAAAAAAABHQ/phXxTi51p_8/s1600/IMG_1975.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-WqCJn4ztlyo/VMXs7X-lOCI/AAAAAAAABHQ/phXxTi51p_8/s1600/IMG_1975.JPG" height="320" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Obi-Wan Kenobi at the Q&A of "Last Days in the Desert"</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img height="320" src="http://www.moviecricket.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/10/Ewan-McGregor-Meeting-With-Disney-To-Discuss-Obi-Wan-Kenobi-Trilogy.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="247" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: 12.8000001907349px;">Obi-Wan Kenobi at the Q&A of "Last Days in the Desert" (Minus lightsaber)</span></td></tr>
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Until next time,<br />
LeahAnonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12090993236140578742noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5571677182183784220.post-88245341597546232512015-01-25T01:16:00.000-08:002015-01-25T01:18:50.939-08:00Sundance Day 2: I Did the Unspeakable<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-dwV9SMok0Ys/VMSydQNACoI/AAAAAAAABGY/xHbA6IGoYKE/s1600/IMG_1961.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-dwV9SMok0Ys/VMSydQNACoI/AAAAAAAABGY/xHbA6IGoYKE/s1600/IMG_1961.JPG" height="320" width="180" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Day 2 with my main chick Holly.</td></tr>
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Today I did the unspeakable. I did the one thing that is most frowned upon during the Sundance Film Festival. The one thing that movie goers and filmmakers loathe.<br />
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I fell asleep during a Sundance film. *insert shocks of horror here*<br />
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In all honesty, it was not my fault. I was up until 3 a.m. the night before completing research and assignments for my class (this is part of my winter term course, it's not a free trip to the festival just for giggles), thus only giving me three hours of sleep. I was truly excited for the film too. It was called "The End of the Tour," directed by James Ponsoldt (<i>The Spectacular Now</i>) and featuring Jason Segel, Jesse Eisenberg, Anna Chlumsky and Joan Cusack, and it told the story of David Lipsky's interactions with author David Foster Wallace during a promotional book tour.<br />
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The film was well done and the actors did a great job with their roles, I just think it was a little slow paced for a 9 a.m. screening. Embarrassingly enough, I found myself periodically nodding off. I even tried widening my eyes as much as possible in hope of gathering the last bit of energy my body could muster. I also started doing a little "theater seat jig" in which I bounced myself around in the seat to a little tune I sung in my head. The theater seat jig provided no support in my attempts to combat the nodding off syndrome. I was less embarrassed, however, when I saw in my peripheral the woman to my right also nodding off during the film. I guess we all stayed up a little too late last night.<br />
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The best part of the screening experience? David Lipsky was actually in the audience. He was only a few feet from me. My real fangirl moment, though, came when Jason Segel came out onto the stage for a Q&A session after the movie. I had to choke back some tears.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-DLV4htC40P4/VMSyZv97EEI/AAAAAAAABGE/puYXzJZhyv4/s1600/IMG_1934.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-DLV4htC40P4/VMSyZv97EEI/AAAAAAAABGE/puYXzJZhyv4/s1600/IMG_1934.JPG" height="320" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">JASON. SEGEL. In my presence. *swoon*</td></tr>
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After the film we ate lunch at this little Chinese restaurant which isn't that concerned about getting your food served altogether, so some of us were almost finished our meals before others received theirs. I also ate two fortune cookies that gave me rather odd fortunes. The first said "Time heals wounds. Keep your chin up." Um, okay. My life is actually pretty swell right now so I don't really have any "wounds" to heal, but good try. The second said, "Don't underestimate yourself. Your social skills are needed by others at this time." Can't the fortune just say that I'm an overall happy person and other people want to bask in my happiness at this time? That would be easier to interpret.<br />
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And let me add... *DRUM ROLL PLEASE* ...I met Chris Pine today.<br />
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Let me clarify: I saw Chris Pine as he ran into his car, surrounded by a team of publicists and body guards. I also saw Margot Robbie and the rest of the cast of "Z for Zachariah" (which I will officially be seeing on MONDAY!).<br />
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You see, I came with a specific goal for the Sundance Film Festival, and that was to meet Chris Pine. Ever since he attached his beautiful face to the name Captain James T. Kirk, Chris Pine has forever stolen my hear (but not more than Leonardo DiCaprio). Since Chris is apparently one heck of a busy man during the festival, I happily accept that I accomplished my goal despite the lack of conversation exchanged with him.<br />
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I came out of my Chris and Margot encounter with some epic pictures of their hair. I should really be a paparazzi.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-7JU8CQmbec4/VMSzrBB1roI/AAAAAAAABG4/4_86yF2LrX0/s1600/IMG_1962.PNG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-7JU8CQmbec4/VMSzrBB1roI/AAAAAAAABG4/4_86yF2LrX0/s1600/IMG_1962.PNG" height="320" width="180" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Chris Pine's hair.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-135lAYQ_LVE/VMSzrN6PL_I/AAAAAAAABG8/wFgcJwayyXk/s1600/IMG_1963.PNG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-135lAYQ_LVE/VMSzrN6PL_I/AAAAAAAABG8/wFgcJwayyXk/s1600/IMG_1963.PNG" height="320" width="180" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Margot Robbie's hair.</td></tr>
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Until next time,<br />
LeahAnonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12090993236140578742noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5571677182183784220.post-36392555669021066262015-01-23T23:52:00.000-08:002015-01-23T23:52:22.663-08:00Welcome to Sundance: Home of the Morning People<div style="color: #444444; font-family: Georgia, 'Bitstream Charter', serif; font-size: 16px; margin-bottom: 24px;">
Apparently it is considered the norm at the Sundance Film Festival to get up at 6:30 a.m. to go see a film.</div>
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For me, this is not the case.</div>
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I am not what one would classify a "morning person," so when my friend Will greeted me with enthusiasm at breakfast, I simply shuffled in my slightly-too-small hiking boots towards the fridge with a grunt and poured myself a glass of apple juice. I'm 99% positive my eyes were still shut. </div>
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Somehow I was also awarded the highly esteemed position of egg maker for the entire group, barely having time to make breakfast for myself. However my egg making career was cut short when I went to serve a perfectly crafted over easy egg onto a plate and instead watched as it slipped and splattered all over the stove. </div>
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-10 points, Leah. </div>
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The rest of the morning went rather smoothly. After waiting for a while out in the freezing Utah weather for our bus, I watched as the rest of my classmates (who all have Adrenaline passes that allow them to skip waiting in line for movies) go in the fastpass line for the film "The Bronze," while I waited with my 300 closest friends in the ticket line. I really enjoyed talking with myself. It was a truly stimulating conversation.</div>
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The movie itself was fantastic and a great way to start off the festival. It was packed from the start with laughs, and I am not a quiet one by any means, so I'm sure the entire audience at the Eccles theater could hear my enthusiasm for the film's plot and carefully arranged comedic elements. </div>
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<dt class="wp-caption-dt" style="-webkit-user-drag: none; color: black; font-weight: bold;"><a data-mce-href="https://elonatsundance.files.wordpress.com/2015/01/img_1910.jpg" href="https://elonatsundance.files.wordpress.com/2015/01/img_1910.jpg" style="-webkit-user-drag: none; color: #743399;"><img alt="IMG_1910" class="wp-image-3371 size-medium" data-mce-src="https://elonatsundance.files.wordpress.com/2015/01/img_1910.jpg?w=225" height="300" src="https://elonatsundance.files.wordpress.com/2015/01/img_1910.jpg?w=225" style="-webkit-user-drag: none; border: 0px none; height: auto; margin: 5px; max-width: 100%; padding: 0px;" width="225" /></a></dt>
<dd class="wp-caption-dd" style="-webkit-user-drag: none; font-size: 11px; line-height: 17px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px 4px 5px;">First day of Sundance!</dd></dl>
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<dt class="wp-caption-dt" style="-webkit-user-drag: none; color: black; font-weight: bold;"><a data-mce-href="https://elonatsundance.files.wordpress.com/2015/01/img_1911.jpg" href="https://elonatsundance.files.wordpress.com/2015/01/img_1911.jpg" style="-webkit-user-drag: none; color: #743399;"><img alt="IMG_1911" class="wp-image-3372 size-medium" data-mce-src="https://elonatsundance.files.wordpress.com/2015/01/img_1911.jpg?w=225" height="300" src="https://elonatsundance.files.wordpress.com/2015/01/img_1911.jpg?w=225" style="-webkit-user-drag: none; border: 0px none; height: auto; margin: 5px; max-width: 100%; padding: 0px;" width="225" /></a></dt>
<dd class="wp-caption-dd" style="-webkit-user-drag: none; font-size: 11px; line-height: 17px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px 4px 5px;">Tim is my favorite. We get along swimmingly.</dd></dl>
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<dt class="wp-caption-dt" style="-webkit-user-drag: none; color: black; font-weight: bold;"><a data-mce-href="https://elonatsundance.files.wordpress.com/2015/01/img_1913.jpg" href="https://elonatsundance.files.wordpress.com/2015/01/img_1913.jpg" style="-webkit-user-drag: none; color: #743399;"><img alt="IMG_1913" class="wp-image-3373 size-medium" data-mce-src="https://elonatsundance.files.wordpress.com/2015/01/img_1913.jpg?w=225" height="300" src="https://elonatsundance.files.wordpress.com/2015/01/img_1913.jpg?w=225" style="-webkit-user-drag: none; border: 0px none; height: auto; margin: 5px; max-width: 100%; padding: 0px;" width="225" /></a></dt>
<dd class="wp-caption-dd" style="-webkit-user-drag: none; font-size: 11px; line-height: 17px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px 4px 5px;">Three models looking to be hired. Serious inquiries only.</dd></dl>
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<dt class="wp-caption-dt" style="-webkit-user-drag: none; color: black; font-weight: bold;"><a data-mce-href="https://elonatsundance.files.wordpress.com/2015/01/img_1916.jpg" href="https://elonatsundance.files.wordpress.com/2015/01/img_1916.jpg" style="-webkit-user-drag: none; color: #743399;"><img alt="IMG_1916" class="wp-image-3374 size-medium" data-mce-src="https://elonatsundance.files.wordpress.com/2015/01/img_1916.jpg?w=169" height="300" src="https://elonatsundance.files.wordpress.com/2015/01/img_1916.jpg?w=169" style="-webkit-user-drag: none; border: 0px none; height: auto; margin: 5px; max-width: 100%; padding: 0px;" width="169" /></a></dt>
<dd class="wp-caption-dd" style="-webkit-user-drag: none; font-size: 11px; line-height: 17px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px 4px 5px;">Just chilling on the bus headed for downtown Park City, Utah.</dd></dl>
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<dt class="wp-caption-dt" style="-webkit-user-drag: none; color: black; font-weight: bold;"><a data-mce-href="https://elonatsundance.files.wordpress.com/2015/01/img_1920.jpg" href="https://elonatsundance.files.wordpress.com/2015/01/img_1920.jpg" style="-webkit-user-drag: none; color: #743399;"><img alt="IMG_1920" class="wp-image-3375 size-medium" data-mce-src="https://elonatsundance.files.wordpress.com/2015/01/img_1920.jpg?w=225" height="300" src="https://elonatsundance.files.wordpress.com/2015/01/img_1920.jpg?w=225" style="-webkit-user-drag: none; border: 0px none; height: auto; margin: 5px; max-width: 100%; padding: 0px;" width="225" /></a></dt>
<dd class="wp-caption-dd" style="-webkit-user-drag: none; font-size: 11px; line-height: 17px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px 4px 5px;">Shirts at Sundance are expensive, so I decided to just take a picture with one instead.</dd></dl>
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I was also able to attend a talk with Harvey Weinstein, co-founder of Miramax films and a big player in the Hollywood industry. You do not want to get on Harvey's bad side as I'm sure you would be forever blacklisted from accomplishing your hopes and dreams. At the end of the talk I decided I wanted to talk to him but didn't want to seem too creepy/desperate, so as he walked by I loudly exclaimed, "Harvey! Thank you so much for taking the time out to talk with us, I really appreciated it!"</div>
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He actually nodded at me and said "You're welcome," with a <em style="border: none; color: inherit;">slight smile</em>. That is basically code for telling me that he's planning to hire me for his next feature film. A-list stardom, here I come. </div>
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<dt class="wp-caption-dt" style="-webkit-user-drag: none; color: black; font-weight: bold;"><a data-mce-href="https://elonatsundance.files.wordpress.com/2015/01/img_1922.jpg" href="https://elonatsundance.files.wordpress.com/2015/01/img_1922.jpg" style="-webkit-user-drag: none; color: #743399;"><img alt="IMG_1922" class="wp-image-3376 size-medium" data-mce-src="https://elonatsundance.files.wordpress.com/2015/01/img_1922.jpg?w=169" height="300" src="https://elonatsundance.files.wordpress.com/2015/01/img_1922.jpg?w=169" style="-webkit-user-drag: none; border: 0px none; height: auto; margin: 5px; max-width: 100%; padding: 0px;" width="169" /></a></dt>
<dd class="wp-caption-dd" style="-webkit-user-drag: none; font-size: 11px; line-height: 17px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px 4px 5px;">The shining faces of J McMerty and Will Mavity, ladies and gentlemen. Easily my favorite photo from the festival so far.</dd></dl>
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<a data-mce-href="https://elonatsundance.files.wordpress.com/2015/01/img_1925.jpg" href="https://elonatsundance.files.wordpress.com/2015/01/img_1925.jpg" style="color: #743399;"></a></div>
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<dt class="wp-caption-dt" style="-webkit-user-drag: none; color: black; font-weight: bold;"><a data-mce-href="https://elonatsundance.files.wordpress.com/2015/01/img_1925.jpg" href="https://elonatsundance.files.wordpress.com/2015/01/img_1925.jpg" style="-webkit-user-drag: none; color: #743399;"><img alt="IMG_1925" class="wp-image-3377 size-medium" data-mce-src="https://elonatsundance.files.wordpress.com/2015/01/img_1925.jpg?w=225" height="300" src="https://elonatsundance.files.wordpress.com/2015/01/img_1925.jpg?w=225" style="-webkit-user-drag: none; border: 0px none; height: auto; margin: 5px; max-width: 100%; padding: 0px;" width="225" /></a></dt>
<dd class="wp-caption-dd" style="-webkit-user-drag: none; font-size: 11px; line-height: 17px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px 4px 5px;">HARVEY. WEINSTEIN. Yes. I was in the front row (basically).</dd></dl>
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All of that was only in day 1 of the festival. By the end of my stay in Utah you could be looking at the next Meryl Streep. </div>
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Until next time,</div>
<div style="color: #444444; font-family: Georgia, 'Bitstream Charter', serif; font-size: 16px; margin-bottom: 24px;">
Leah</div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12090993236140578742noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5571677182183784220.post-45058983709462976242014-11-12T09:53:00.000-08:002014-11-12T09:53:13.436-08:00My Four Personal Travel Must-Haves<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Studying abroad takes a great deal of courage (Great, now I sound like I'm sending you off to battle). You're going to be living off on your own in another country that is completely different from everything you know and anything familiar. You may be travelling with someone you already know or you may be starting a new adventure in your life with people you have never met. </div>
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When I studied abroad, I knew zero people I would be spending the next four months with before boarding the plane to Spain. It wasn't scary, it was absolutely petrifying. However, seeing as I'm sitting here writing it appears that I made it out alive. Whether you're studying abroad or just travelling, having some of your favorite things with you can make a huge difference, especially if the trip is long-term. </div>
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The following four items are what I consider to be my Personal Must-Haves for travelling (not in any specific order). </div>
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<b style="font-size: x-large;">1. Sony Bloggie</b></div>
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This little guy went with me EVERYWHERE while I was living abroad. I made a ton of videos documenting my experience, and making those videos is one of the best decisions I've ever made. Rather than just having photos to look at, I now have a plethora of embarrassing video footage from my life in Spain. Who doesn't love embarrassing videos of themselves, am I right? I am able to watch moments from my 4 months in Europe unfold before me. I'm able to watch my first walk with my friend Tori to La Universidad de Sevilla. I am able to hear what it sounded like in the coffee shops. I can relive my hilarious camel ride in Morocco. Basically, I would like to give an Oscar to the Bloggie. You're the bomb.com, little dude.</div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b>2. Pictures of Friends and Family</b></span></div>
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This is especially important if you are living abroad for an extended period of time. Having some pictures of my friends and family was vital in making a smooth transition into Spanish life, because I was able to have a small snippet of home with me. You can remind yourself that these people do still exist and that you haven't been transported to some sort of alternate universe. I recommend hanging them up by your dresser or by a mirror so you can easily see them when you're feeling homesick. </div>
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<b><span style="font-size: large;">3. My Handy, Dandy Journal</span></b></div>
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I cannot stress enough the importance of writing about your day-to-day experiences while travelling or living abroad. Not only is it a way to document your experiences, it is a great way to relieve stress and culture shock. I draw a lot in my journal, write inspirational quotes, cut and paste from magazines, and write. Your journal is your journal, you can do with it what you please, but simply having and using one is most important.</div>
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<b><span style="font-size: large;">4</span></b><b><span style="font-size: large;">. Reindeer </span></b></div>
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This is my stuffed animal reindeer that I received as a gift from my brother when I was seven. His name is literally Reindeer. He really enjoyed coming to Spain with me. Yes, I am 21 years-old. It was another little piece of home and he helped lessen the culture shock. </div>
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Until next time,</div>
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Leah</div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12090993236140578742noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5571677182183784220.post-61877693314417802014-10-06T10:26:00.000-07:002014-10-06T11:04:19.001-07:00A Letter to My 14-Year-Old Self<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-StADUmBWSck/VDLQXXYlKyI/AAAAAAAABDM/1CRyb_swZq4/s1600/dearleah.gif" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-StADUmBWSck/VDLQXXYlKyI/AAAAAAAABDM/1CRyb_swZq4/s1600/dearleah.gif" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Picture evidence that I was so awkward at 14. </span></div>
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Growing up, I always wrote letters to my future self. I wrote one when I was 13 for when I 16, one at 16 for when I was 18, one at 18 for my 21st birthday, and when I was 20 I wrote a letter which I won't open until I am 30 years old (I have a while to wait before opening that one, thanks goodness. I don't want to feel old just yet).<br />
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It is amazing to see how much I have changed and haven't changed through the progression of these letters. The letters acted as mini snapshots of my most formative years, the years when I experienced my first date, my first big questions about relationships and love, my worries and hopes for the future, my developing intellectual views on life as I grew into a young woman. Every so often I take them out of the little box I keep on my dresser and reread them. I always laugh out loud at the words written on the page in front of me because it's funny how I still have these <b>same exact questions</b>. I have never been in love and still don't know a single darn thing about it. My present is now the future I once fretted while writing these letters, yet I'm still constantly worrying about tomorrow, the next day, the following week, the years to come. I'm still learning about life and developing my views, and I plan to keep learning and growing for the rest of my life.<br />
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I would love to challenge everyone reading this to start writing letters to your future self. It is a truly remarkable experience when you open a letter written by your younger self.<br />
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However, I want to switch it up today and write a letter to my 14 year-old self, right as I entered high school. So here goes nothing, hopefully the younger Leah doesn't judge me too much or think I'm a complete nut job.<br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b>Dear 14 year-old Leah,</b></span><br />
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You entering high school. Finally, right? I know it sounds crazy and that you feel like you're practically a grandmother, but trust me, you're not old. Not even close.<br />
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I'm sitting here right now, 7 years in the future, wondering how much I've actually changed from you. I have quite the extensive collection of Disney songs on my phone, I still read books from the YA section of the bookstore, I act like an elementary schoolgirl when I have a crush on someone, I find my class notes to be filled more with doodles than actual information, and I still have trouble knowing when to be serious and when to be silly. Am I even an adult?<br />
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I'd like to consider myself youthful in a good way. If growing up means becoming boring, then count me out. However, while I feel that there are parts of me that will never "grow up," there are other parts that have been shaped by the lessons I have learned over the past 7 years, the lessons which will continue to transform me for the rest of my life.<br />
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These next four years in high school are going to be some of the absolute best years of your life. They're also going to be the foundation of some of your biggest life lessons, so listen up.<br />
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Do what you want to do because it's what you love. Don't let your passions be tossed under the rug because you want to do what's cool. You're going to miss out on a lot your freshman year because you're going to be focused on partying and hanging out with the wrong crowd, but you will find your way. I just wish you would find your way faster and be confident in who you are, not who you wish you were.<br />
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Boyfriends are overrated. Don't waste your time searching for your soul mate in high school, I promise you won't find him there. You will simply be weeding through all of the "hell-no's" and making yourself frustrated when Prince Charming isn't waiting by your locker with flowers. Remember that Valentine's Day is just an excuse for chocolate and card companies to rack in more sales. You don't need a Valentine to feel special, you're beautiful and unique all on your own. I know this is hard to hear since you are very much a true romantic, but I have hopes that one day everything will all work out the way it is supposed to be.<br />
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Stop taking your friendships for granted. If I'm being honest, you can be quite a (insert favorite profanity here) to your friends sometimes because you know they'll always have your back, but lay off, will you? Take the time to put your friends before yourself, to ask how they are doing and really want to know the answer, and to actually listen to them when they tell you to <i>stop</i> doing something.<br />
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Realize that you are not going to stay friends with everyone for the rest of your life. Every person in your life has a purpose and a lesson to teach you, but you lose touch with those whose purpose in our lives has been completed. There's a great quote that reads, "<i>When your heart aches, just remember God knows what's best, and when the times is right God will show you the difference between people who are meant to play a part in your life and those who are meant to be apart of your life" - Unknown</i>. You are going to try your hardest to stay connected with as many people as you can and it's going to hurt horribly when people start to cut ties from you. People you've known your whole life will become distant memories and it's going to be <b>painful</b>, but you will make it through. You will find new shoulders to cry on and new friends to always have your back.<br />
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You're going to make some gigantic mistakes in the years to come, but it's not going to be the end of the world. Don't think that drinking is going to make you an adult. I know you think that if you do then you'll have a stronger relationship with your brother, but you're just going to cause yourself more problems. You're going to lose your parents' trust, but know that they will always love you. There is no way that I can tell you exactly which mistakes to avoid because you need to make them in order to learn from them. You need to be a failure at times in order to be a success later.<br />
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You will never be able to make every single person happy. You will only make yourself depressed and miserable by attempting to accomplish this. Don't change yourself to fit someone else's ideal mold. Don't silence your opinion because it's not the same as the majority. You have a unique purpose in this world and if you conform to the image somebody else has for you then you will <b>never </b>be able to discover what God has planned. Don't be afraid to be exactly who you are. In fact, be <b>PROUD</b> to be the truest version of yourself. You will be much happier. Didn't you know? Happy girls are the prettiest girls.<br />
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My last piece of advice is this: Tell people how you really feel. Go out on a limb and take a chance because life is too short to wonder what could have been. The worst thing someone can say is "no" or tell you that they're not interested, so just do it. Be bold.<br />
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Until next time,<br />
Future Leah<br />
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12090993236140578742noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5571677182183784220.post-22886490441184500742014-09-18T14:21:00.000-07:002014-09-18T14:21:08.741-07:00How to Fit Your Life Into a Carry-On Bag<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Packing into a carry-on bag has forever been considered an old wives' tale in my opinion. How can one <i>possibly</i> fit their entire lives into a small, backpack-sized carry-on bag? This is a trick question. The answer is clearly no.</div>
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<span style="font-size: x-large;">THIS COULDN'T BE MORE WRONG!</span></div>
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If you are familiar with RyanAir, you will know that some airline companies are extremely strict when it comes to their baggage size requirements and will charge outrageous fees if you bring a second bag. I'm here to tell you from personal experience that not only is it possible to pack for longer trips into a small carry-on bag that avoids these ridiculous baggage costs, but that you don't have to look like a complete hobo during your travels by doing such!</div>
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This is a win for everyone involved, because will you have mastered the art of packing in confined spaces and everyone else around you won't be horrified by the sight of your everyday appearance during your journey. </div>
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So let's dive in and learn some nifty tips and tricks in order to accomplish this seemingly impossible task. If I can pack for 4 days in Paris in a miniature backpack, then you can pack your life into a carry-on too.</div>
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<b><span style="font-size: large;">1. Limit the amount of bulky items you bring with you.</span></b></div>
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If your travel destination is someplace warm, then this should be a lot easier because you won't really be needing heavy coats and sweatshirts. However, if you are traveling someplace that is expected to have low temperatures, you will clearly be needing clothing that will not cause you to get frostbite and lose limbs (Nothing is more awkward than traveling with someone who's losing body parts). Try to bring one coat/sweatshirt that can be used over multiple outfits to maximize your storage. Another great discovery I made while living and traveling abroad was <b>TURTLENECKS</b>. You may think that these retro beauties have lost their charm, but they're easy to fold and very compact, making them packing wonders. They're also great to throw on underneath a coat and won't make you look like a walking marshmallow. </div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-V48TwQ1FSew/VBqOx7v-QeI/AAAAAAAABCE/09EwD_0fd3Y/s1600/guiness.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-V48TwQ1FSew/VBqOx7v-QeI/AAAAAAAABCE/09EwD_0fd3Y/s1600/guiness.jpg" height="320" width="320" /></a></div>
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<b>WHAT <u>NOT</u> TO BRING:</b> Big, bulky sweaters/sweatshirts that will take up a lot of room.</div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-gaFXIoEARCk/VBqOx3IOyNI/AAAAAAAABCA/A1qr5HZ-ChY/s1600/turtleneck.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-gaFXIoEARCk/VBqOx3IOyNI/AAAAAAAABCA/A1qr5HZ-ChY/s1600/turtleneck.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
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<b>WHAT <u>TO</u> BRING:</b> Light, slim turtlenecks that will provide warmth without taking up a lot of room.</div>
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<b><span style="font-size: large;">2. Wear your bulkiest items on the plane.</span></b></div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-4jtDjUtPE9I/VBqrIItw64I/AAAAAAAABCY/5s0yydvC5LI/s1600/joey-as-chandler-layers-of-clothes.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-4jtDjUtPE9I/VBqrIItw64I/AAAAAAAABCY/5s0yydvC5LI/s1600/joey-as-chandler-layers-of-clothes.jpeg" height="320" width="196" /></a></div>
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Just as Joey from "Friends" depicts in the above photo, it's important to make use of what you wear while riding the plane in order to maximize the space you have in your carry-on. If you are choosing to bring a giant sweatshirt or sweater, wear it on the plane. I don't care how long the plane ride is or how uncomfortable you are throughout the flight because you will thank me when you are able to bring more of your belongings with you. </div>
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<b><span style="font-size: large;">3. Roll your clothes when packing.</span></b></div>
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When you roll your clothing, it is easier to fit more in your bag. Folding clothing (especially when packing into a backpack-sized carry-on) takes up more room, a.k.a. a huge no-no for your packing endeavors. So get like dough and roll those clothes. </div>
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<b><span style="font-size: large;">4. Bring clothing pieces that can be worn again with different outfits (and nobody will really know!)</span></b></div>
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Leggings are your new best friend. Black leggings especially can be paired with many different tops to create varying casual and more dressed up looks, and they are incredibly compact and easy to roll when it comes to packing. If you are headed to a warm destination that is going to warrant shorts, a pair of nondescript black or white shorts that are made from lighter material can also be substituted because they are still easy to roll and won't be bulky in the packing process. In addition, try to only bring <b>one pair of shoes </b>that can be paired with a variety of outfits so you can save room in your carry-on for toiletries rather than take up all of the room with another pair of shoes. If you are bringing jewelry, the same rule applies in which you should attempt to only bring one pair of earrings and/or one necklace. </div>
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Here are examples of how I created four different outfits using the same pair of leggings, shoes, and jewelry: </div>
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<a href="http://www.polyvore.com/outfit1/set?.embedder=140810&.svc=copypaste&id=134677640" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img alt="Outfit1" border="0" src="http://cfc.polyvoreimg.com/cgi/img-set/.sig/e3RVyxLlhutDU6ExdZadQ/cid/134677640/id/eCXULKA65BGWLNwjiPOa4g/size/c600x600.jpg" height="200" title="Outfit1" width="200" /></a><a href="http://www.polyvore.com/outfit2/set?.embedder=140810&.svc=copypaste&id=134677679" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img alt="Outfit2" border="0" src="http://cfc.polyvoreimg.com/cgi/img-set/.sig/OUHCl1ok10EPoeoOvwxw/cid/134677679/id/XvloPaA65BGgDArN2__Y_w/size/c600x621.jpg" height="200" title="Outfit2" width="193" /></a><a href="http://www.polyvore.com/outfit3/set?.embedder=140810&.svc=copypaste&id=134678100" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img alt="Outfit3" border="0" src="http://cfc.polyvoreimg.com/cgi/img-set/.sig/lR3mqhPCu0pkKqGeNRpw/cid/134678100/id/UILUKKE65BGVosONDXURzQ/size/c600x493.jpg" height="164" title="Outfit3" width="200" /></a><a href="http://www.polyvore.com/outfit4/set?.embedder=140810&.svc=copypaste&id=134678108" target="_blank"><img alt="Outfit4" border="0" src="http://cfc.polyvoreimg.com/cgi/img-set/.sig/Ir0bo3BQ1ZPFrojkRA/cid/134678108/id/pBacLaE65BGqFrBCiPOa4g/size/c600x480.jpg" height="160" title="Outfit4" width="200" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b>5. Pack all of your toiletries into baggies.</b></span></div>
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You will thank me when liquids don't spill all over your clothes. Trust me from personal experience, there is nothing that brings me greater joy than opening my bag after a long flight to find that "items shifted during flight" and created a wonderful spill (heavy sarcasm). </div>
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I hope that these five tips gave you a better insight on how your are going to tackle the task of packing into a carry-on bag. No matter how many tips and tricks you receive, it is a process that one can only master once they've had to go through it themselves. So best of luck to you on your packing and travel adventures, the world awaits you.</div>
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Until next time,</div>
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Leah</div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12090993236140578742noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5571677182183784220.post-43478506949979801562014-09-03T08:37:00.000-07:002014-09-03T08:37:23.685-07:00The Art of the SelfieIf you want to write a novel but you hate reading, you probably won't get very far. The same logic goes for bloggers: If you want to own a successful blog, you have to read other blogs. So, taking my own advice, I often find myself perusing various blogs in my spare time. Thanks to the "Popular Posts" section of Bloglovin' (<a href="http://www.bloglovin.com/popular" target="_blank">http://www.bloglovin.com/popular</a>), I was able to stumble upon a great post by "Helene in Between" that listed 30 creative blog topics one should try. You can check out her post by clicking <a href="http://www.heleneinbetween.com/2014/09/30-different-blog-post-ideas.html" target="_blank">HERE!</a> All of ideas were interesting and fun, but one in particular stuck out to me.<br />
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Idea #2: Your Favorite Selfie and Why. </div>
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I personally consider myself to be the selfie queen, and often find myself snapping a quickie regardless of where I am or who I'm with. Walking to class in the middle of campus? Selfie. Running at the gym? Selfie. Listening to a lecture in class? Selfie. I am virtually unstoppable when it comes to selfie mode. It only gets awkward when you forget your phone volume is up as you snap a pic, instantly taking you from incognito mode to broadcasting mode. </div>
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I've decided to accept Helene's challenge and amplified the requirements.</div>
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I now present to you my <b>FIVE </b>favorite selfies and why. </div>
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<b><span style="font-size: large;">1.) The "I'm Trying to Catch Flies in My Mouth" Selfie</span></b></div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-maMuBqWZ8zw/VAa3RKPiPGI/AAAAAAAAA_s/-ejcLt6-oo0/s1600/TopSelfie1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-maMuBqWZ8zw/VAa3RKPiPGI/AAAAAAAAA_s/-ejcLt6-oo0/s1600/TopSelfie1.jpg" height="400" width="300" /></a></div>
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This picture was taken in Lagos, Portugal while I was studying abroad last year. The views and scenery were absolutely indescribable and it is an experience I will surely never forget. I like this selfie because you are able to catch a small, small, microscopic glimpse of the picturesque surroundings. Only a small peek though. The main star of this photo is my face, which is clearly more important. I appear to be somewhere in the middle of screaming out in pain and squealing with excitement. Maybe my mouth really is closed and I have an unfortunately large gap in between my two rows my teeth, just like when I was little: </div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-CbtXiFBD31k/VAbAfAF-2TI/AAAAAAAABAU/yOXhhpiWlg0/s1600/leah.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-CbtXiFBD31k/VAbAfAF-2TI/AAAAAAAABAU/yOXhhpiWlg0/s1600/leah.jpg" height="320" width="236" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Wow, those are some jacked up teeth!</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b>2.) The "I Got the Whole World In My Hand" Selfie</b></span></div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-b5y1SrseWkA/VAa3SBATOmI/AAAAAAAAA_w/q9_Pn1hFD7o/s1600/TopSelfie2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-b5y1SrseWkA/VAa3SBATOmI/AAAAAAAAA_w/q9_Pn1hFD7o/s1600/TopSelfie2.jpg" height="400" width="300" /></a></div>
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This fun little photo was taken in Morocco last year during my study abroad experience. Setting foot on the continent of Africa had always been on my bucket list, so finally being able to cross it off was a wonderful feeling of accomplishment. This particular selfie features the infamous "duck lips," a crime for which I am a repeat offender. What I like about this photo is that the duck lips aren't as pronounced as "in your face" as most duck lips normally are. In fact, what I truly appreciate about this selfie is the apparent effort to hold back those eager duck lips, creating a sort of "pursed lips" appearance. Having Morocco in the background ain't too shabby either.</div>
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<b><span style="font-size: large;">3.) The "I'm Storing Nuts for the Winter" Selfie</span></b></div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-B9pMa1PGDSE/VAa3SUjj7rI/AAAAAAAAA_0/W64OIgq49gI/s1600/TopSelfie6.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-B9pMa1PGDSE/VAa3SUjj7rI/AAAAAAAAA_0/W64OIgq49gI/s1600/TopSelfie6.jpg" height="400" width="300" /></a></div>
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For Selfie #3 I have decided to use my "Phone a Friend" lifeline. This selfie features my friend Hannah as we cheer at the Real Betis fútbol game in Sevilla on Halloween. There are a couple of reasons why I enjoy this selfie. One, I am no longer alone in my selfie efforts. Though most of Hannah's body is cut out of the shot in order to make room for the more important subject, me, her face is clearly in the shot and thus it counts as a dual-person selfie. Two, I decided to dress up for Halloween as a CIA agent. Wearing a coral scarf. In all fairness, at least no one would suspect me of being a secret agent. </div>
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<b><span style="font-size: large;">4.) The "What is Even Happening" Selfie</span></b></div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-tRn2p6Cweck/VAbHZIvM9GI/AAAAAAAABAg/fKt9H5on-YQ/s1600/TopSelfie17.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-tRn2p6Cweck/VAbHZIvM9GI/AAAAAAAABAg/fKt9H5on-YQ/s1600/TopSelfie17.jpg" height="400" width="300" /></a></div>
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It was my 21st birthday. I was celebrating in Sevilla, Spain. I accidentally took a shot of absinthe. Quite a remarkable evening. </div>
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<b><span style="font-size: large;">5.) The "Monkey See, Monkey Do" Selfie</span></b></div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-BoF_7u5CeJI/VAbHZNWHLcI/AAAAAAAABAk/kGo-fMrnsuk/s1600/TopSelfie18.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-BoF_7u5CeJI/VAbHZNWHLcI/AAAAAAAABAk/kGo-fMrnsuk/s1600/TopSelfie18.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
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One of the most enjoyable activities I found while studying abroad was to take awkward selfies in front of pieces of artwork or statues. In said selfies, I would attempt to imitate the exact same expression the artwork was displaying. This particular selfie was taken on my last day in Sevilla, the day after my entire family flew in and my brother surprised me by visiting as well. They were all standing by, watching as this magical moment took place. My dad joined in on the photography fun and now has a picture of me taking this exact selfie. </div>
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Until next time,</div>
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Leah</div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12090993236140578742noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5571677182183784220.post-8846946099874343052014-08-29T09:27:00.000-07:002014-08-29T09:27:49.175-07:00"All Children, Except One, Grow Up" ...And That Would Be MeThis coming spring I will be graduating from Elon University.<br />
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...Wait, what?<br />
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As most seniors know, it feels like it was just yesterday that I was beginning what would be the best four years of my life. Just yesterday I got my picture taken for my Phoenix Card, a.k.a. your Elon University lifeline. Just yesterday I moved all of my things into that horrifying dorm known as "Old Staley." Just yesterday it was my first day of preseason for the Elon Dance Team, my second family while away at school. Just yesterday I was sprinting down the hill towards a group of 150 other women who I am lucky to call my sisters in Sigma Kappa.<br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-v3ajHMWQen8/VACgR7GtLaI/AAAAAAAAA-4/WZAeisPOSKA/s1600/freshman.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-v3ajHMWQen8/VACgR7GtLaI/AAAAAAAAA-4/WZAeisPOSKA/s1600/freshman.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">My first day at Elon, the day I moved into Old Staley.</span></div>
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Now unfortunately you can't get your picture retaken for your Phoenix Card, so as a senior I'm still stuck with the same 18 y.o. face fitted with a pair of solid black eyes that make me look like a demon. Apparently the printer was having an off day and couldn't print eyes, so I got stuck looking like a monster all throughout my college experience. And Old Staley was the perfect name for my freshman dorm since our hall continuously reeked of fifty rotting corpses. I'd also like to note that I was charged $200 for the sink in my room because it wasn't "clean enough" and then the university tore the building down two weeks later. There were days when I was absolutely overwhelmed by the time commitment required of varsity athletes on a collegiate team. The days when I performed at practice as if I had just learned how to dance were my absolute favorite. And there were those days when I got into petty arguments with my sisters. One time I sat in the corner of my room in the dark and just sulked, because apparently I'm really mature.<br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-NPqVzjRafSk/VACnzHY-hrI/AAAAAAAAA_M/c5c2U_hWwWc/s1600/photo%2B(4).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-NPqVzjRafSk/VACnzHY-hrI/AAAAAAAAA_M/c5c2U_hWwWc/s1600/photo%2B(4).JPG" height="310" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">My horrible Phoenix Card. Apparently Elon now allows creatures to attend the university.</span></div>
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However, looking back, I wouldn't change one single thing. You have to take the good and the bad. One of the most important life lessons I've gained at college is to just roll with it. Whether you're rolling with the punches or rolling with piles of good fortune, college has been an insane ride so far and I'd really prefer that it didn't end.<br />
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<b><u>So here's my advice:</u></b> Go to that party on a weeknight even when you have a huge paper due the next day. Spend money that you don't have on a movie ticket with your friends, or to go to a concert that you probably won't remember. Worry less, laugh more. Do what you want to do, not what you think you have to. Focus on building relationships rather than maintaining a perfect GPA. Make stupid decisions, then make them again. Don't hold grudges. Get involved around campus, because you never know who you'll meet or what you'll learn when you step outside of your dorm room. Meet new people, try new things. College is the time to start figuring out who you are, so find your passions and pursue them.<br />
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As you progress through college, the intensity of those exhilarating memories you once had starts to lessen as you lay new memories on top of the old. It doesn't really hit you until your senior year when you begin backstalking yourself on Facebook or flipping through old photos that you realize: "Holy crap, this has been one heck of an amazing ride."<br />
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Seniors, this is our year. Let's be reckless and stupid while we can. It's scary to think about what comes next and it's bittersweet to hear the word "graduation," but we're not there yet. We still have this year, this final hoorah. A child I nannied once told me that you're still a child until you graduate college, so let's be kids while we still can.<br />
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">My name is Leah. I'm a senior.</span></div>
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In the wise words of One Direction: "I wanna live while we're young."<br />
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Until next time,<br />
LeahAnonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12090993236140578742noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5571677182183784220.post-66076341299974843512014-06-12T10:45:00.000-07:002014-06-12T10:45:57.229-07:00Here's to the Simplicity and Joy of ChildhoodI recently found myself in a funk because I was getting jealous. I've been looking at all of my friends on Facebook that are my age and pouting at their impressive internships at well-known newspapers, magazines, PR companies, etc. Many of them are also spending their summer frolicking around in iconic cities like New York and Los Angeles.<br />
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And where do I have the privilege of spending my summer? The not-so-glamorous Severna Park, Maryland.<br />
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Now don't get me wrong, I am beyond #blessed (sorry, I had to). I really don't have much to complain about, seeing as I too frolicked in an iconic city with a wonderful internship (make that <i>two</i> internships). My past summer consisted of living the Hollywood life in Los Angeles while interning at both CollegeHumor and Familius, a book publishing company that focuses on the importance of family. I lived in the famous Oakwood apartments with all of the aspiring child actors and traveled to a new beach in California every weekend. Basically, I was living the dream.<br />
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Here are some photos that have me reminiscing about my summer in paradise, the summer when everything was absolutely perfect:<br />
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">When I found James Cameron's star, the director of "Titanic" (a.k.a. my hero). </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><b><u>Fun fact:</u></b> LEONARDO DICAPRIO DOESN'T HAVE A STAR. WHAT IS THE WORLD COMING TO.</span></div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-H4zT69JZROg/U5nWIRbLGuI/AAAAAAAAA7E/AEu7ucYVvq0/s1600/cali2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-H4zT69JZROg/U5nWIRbLGuI/AAAAAAAAA7E/AEu7ucYVvq0/s1600/cali2.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Tessa and I at the Dodgers game.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">That one time when I bought the Beatles' Yellow Submarine CD in Japanese... </span></div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-n-osMag2qlg/U5nWJ5NMVkI/AAAAAAAAA7U/tRkctDMVAAs/s1600/cali5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-n-osMag2qlg/U5nWJ5NMVkI/AAAAAAAAA7U/tRkctDMVAAs/s1600/cali5.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Oh, hey there, Hollywood sign, I'm behind you!</span></div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-9-p_ed8YkmI/U5nWKR_hmhI/AAAAAAAAA7Y/yQjCvktL9d8/s1600/cali6.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-9-p_ed8YkmI/U5nWKR_hmhI/AAAAAAAAA7Y/yQjCvktL9d8/s1600/cali6.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">My noble steed for the summer, Leo.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Getting to see my twin, Lindsay, in her natural California habitat.</span></div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-mFmi9TWKwzE/U5nWLFkXDeI/AAAAAAAAA7s/G-1vls_q6og/s1600/cali8.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-mFmi9TWKwzE/U5nWLFkXDeI/AAAAAAAAA7s/G-1vls_q6og/s1600/cali8.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Sitting on the "Friends" couch with my L.A. roomies.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Welcome to Venice Beach. Self-explanatory.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Trying to model with the fashionista herself, Kathleen Harper.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Trying to model again. I should stick with dance.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Hanging out on top of the world.</span></div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-9a2jRBRW2Cg/U5nWGb6NzOI/AAAAAAAAA6k/A9Aq-eY5Yx8/s1600/cali13.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-9a2jRBRW2Cg/U5nWGb6NzOI/AAAAAAAAA6k/A9Aq-eY5Yx8/s1600/cali13.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">The absolute BEST acting class and group of people you will ever meet.</span></div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-IwfJBfKpzz4/U5nWGzsSVFI/AAAAAAAAA6o/Op8_K3S9Xvk/s1600/cali14.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-IwfJBfKpzz4/U5nWGzsSVFI/AAAAAAAAA6o/Op8_K3S9Xvk/s1600/cali14.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Thanks, CollegeHumor, for helping me to perfect the best craft service table. They even sent a picture of my table to the CollegeHumor's president. BOOM. Best intern ever = me.</span></div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-hBk7FeW9tDE/U5nWHJXZMkI/AAAAAAAAA6s/7w8YYiv0EaI/s1600/cali15.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-hBk7FeW9tDE/U5nWHJXZMkI/AAAAAAAAA6s/7w8YYiv0EaI/s1600/cali15.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Yeah, I met Chuy. He was phenomenal. I know you're jealous.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Meet Esther, the sassiest Jewish woman ever. She was my grandma's old next door neighbor. We had weekly IHOP lunch dates. (Pictured with my mother, Diane, on the far left).</span></div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Ed7XHa-y1LQ/U5nWHhwFVxI/AAAAAAAAA64/Nq-qEZFlI4Q/s1600/cali17.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Ed7XHa-y1LQ/U5nWHhwFVxI/AAAAAAAAA64/Nq-qEZFlI4Q/s1600/cali17.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">The best was when my parents came to visit at the end of the summer.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">My Dad and I get really intense with the Buzz Lightyear game at Disneyland. I always lose. I blame the controller.</span></div>
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Clearly I can't complain, but I still feel bitter because I feel like I should be completing another internship this summer. However, after being $11,000 dollars in debt from my summer in Los Angeles, and <i>then </i>studying abroad in Spain and digging myself further into a debt hole, I decided that I should forgo an internship and get a job where I can earn money and start to save up in order to pay back those charming loans.</div>
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I am officially a nanny this summer for the same family I nannied when I was a freshman in college, and I can honestly say that it is a truly rewarding experience. There is something special that comes from watching children grow up and mature, and knowing that I've played a part in how they have grown up is indescribable altogether. </div>
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I'm not saying that every day is a walk in the park, because I'm still dealing with kids and they are <i>always</i> full of surprises. Despite the fact that the kids are now two years older than my last summer with them, I still have to break up fights, act as a mediator, and come up with sufficient compromises. </div>
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After being with the kids for almost three weeks now, I've discovered that my job as a nanny is more vital to my success later in life than I previously realized. A smile comes to my face when I realize that the toughest argument Will, the 12-year-old boy I nanny, has with is friends is over what would be the best super power to have in life. My smile grows when I watch Paige, the 9-year-old I nanny, try to create a pulley system with a hanger and duck tape for an hour and then use a tennis ball and blanket to transform into my fortune teller. </div>
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These observations all come down to one thing: imagination. Kids have this amazing ability to enjoy life and to have fun that I find adults often forget. Being able to step back from the stress and strain of schoolwork, job searches and the task of packaging myself to employers and simply being a kid again has sparked a new light in me that I haven't seen for a while. I have the freedom to play and be silly. I have endless opportunities to smile and laugh. I have now found the ability to become entertained by blowing bubbles for two hours straight.</div>
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So here is a message to my friends who have their dream internships this summer: don't forget what is really important in life. You often find yourself so caught up in climbing the ladder and "making it" in the real world that you don't remember how to let go and simply enjoy life. </div>
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I may be a step behind by not having an internship this summer, but I have found something much greater, and that is pure bliss.</div>
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Until next time,</div>
Leah<br />
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12090993236140578742noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5571677182183784220.post-68363801901662582762014-05-28T17:26:00.000-07:002014-06-12T10:37:53.792-07:00Your Guide to a Successful Me Day<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-RSwirfkFR0I/U4Zfpl0hk-I/AAAAAAAAA2w/bYGZJrJ-DFs/s1600/Blog_MeDay1.gif" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-RSwirfkFR0I/U4Zfpl0hk-I/AAAAAAAAA2w/bYGZJrJ-DFs/s1600/Blog_MeDay1.gif" height="136" width="400" /></a></div>
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Let's face it: everyone needs a "me day." You can pretty much use anything as an excuse for a break too, like men, responsibilities, the weight of everyday life, your friends, the world. The bottom line is that you need a day on which you do things that make <i>YOU</i> happy.<br />
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In celebration of tomorrow being #tbt, I've decided to use heinous photos of my younger self as examples of activities you can do on a "me day." Feel free to laugh at my awkwardness.<br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-dH29JYCrsv8/U4ZfqmN2z0I/AAAAAAAAA2o/TdjwN7NMxZg/s1600/Blog_MeDay5.gif" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-dH29JYCrsv8/U4ZfqmN2z0I/AAAAAAAAA2o/TdjwN7NMxZg/s1600/Blog_MeDay5.gif" height="313" width="400" /></a></div>
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If there is a beach within a relatively close distance, you have access to a car and you have the whole day ahead of you...GO TO THE BEACH! What is more relaxing than your toes in the sand and the sound of crashing waves in the background? A beach is a great place to unwind and escape into your own paradise to get away from whatever is troubling you. The photos above were taken from my high school senior week, and I just so happened to crash the class of 2014's senior week this year with my best friend. It was such a fun trip, and a great way to escape for a couple days from my hectic life. </div>
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Here are a few photos from the day that we went to the beach: </div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-AeRCkZvyFD4/U4ZmazT6c5I/AAAAAAAAA3U/CYT9lPfDzos/s1600/BeachDay1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-AeRCkZvyFD4/U4ZmazT6c5I/AAAAAAAAA3U/CYT9lPfDzos/s1600/BeachDay1.jpg" height="213" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">View from the sidewalk.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">View from the boardwalk.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Just hanging out alone. </span></div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-8c-rZeBOAeI/U4ZfplC7M3I/AAAAAAAAA2Y/B76hIXNnpOE/s1600/Blog_MeDay3.gif" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-8c-rZeBOAeI/U4ZfplC7M3I/AAAAAAAAA2Y/B76hIXNnpOE/s1600/Blog_MeDay3.gif" height="216" width="400" /></a></div>
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The picture above also happens to be from my high school senior week. Taking a nap is one of my favorite activities because they happen so rarely for me. I often find myself sleep deprived, so whenever I get the chance for a quick 30 minute snooze it is the best pick-me-up during a hectic day. If you're planning an awesome "me day," you'll want to plan a nice nap in your day in order to let your mind unwind. </div>
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You know that moment when your song comes on the radio and you just want to yell out "THIS IS MY JAM!" and start dancing, but then you remember you're in public and that would be socially unacceptable? Well, now you can! Create a playlist of all the songs that get your feet tapping, grab your broom microphone, and have your own personal dance party. I definitely do this at least once a day, especially when I'm alone at my newspaper's office. Here's my thought: if you have a one man dance party and no one was there to see it, did it really happen? Exactly. </div>
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If you're trying to get over that man that stabbed you in the heart or are feeling in need of a "new you," the best advice I can give is to change up your hair. If you note the picture above, I have extensively traveled the road of hair colors. I'm not ashamed. I like trying new things, even if they end up going horribly wrong, like the time I accidentally dyed my hair white (people called my Betty White for a long time). You can also just settle for an old-fashioned haircut, that might be easier and less risky. </div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-VP4Jnh00T3w/U4ZftGw6joI/AAAAAAAAA3E/0usWc4XolBs/s1600/Blog_MeDay6.gif" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-VP4Jnh00T3w/U4ZftGw6joI/AAAAAAAAA3E/0usWc4XolBs/s1600/Blog_MeDay6.gif" height="320" width="400" /></a></div>
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Growing up, my friends and I were always guilty of planning a photo shoot even when they were just plain awful (see above picture). We always planned them with the hopes of getting a cute new Myspace profile picture, but in the end they just ended up being a way where we could dress up and take pictures while laughing at the horrible outtakes (aka all of the photos). Let's face it, I'm not going to be a model anytime soon, but being goofy with your friends can be a great way to kick back and laugh at yourself.<br />
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And Finally, Look Up Some Inspirational Quotes</span></h2>
I found some of my favorite inspirational quotes and took them to Photoshop on my "Me Day." It's always enjoyable to feel inspired, so make a list of your favorite inspirational quotes and keep them handy for a rainy day or when you need a pick-me-upper.<br />
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I hope you have a successful "me day." Whatever you choose to do, make sure it's making you happy. After all, it's a day all about YOU.<br />
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Until next time,<br />
Leah<br />
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12090993236140578742noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5571677182183784220.post-43257508534958124512014-04-17T13:04:00.000-07:002014-06-12T10:37:44.284-07:00Let's Just Cut the Crap<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-iY-Rp1LftBQ/U1AqDGCjeqI/AAAAAAAAA1A/i-W9VIZkBQE/s1600/passiveaggressivememe.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-iY-Rp1LftBQ/U1AqDGCjeqI/AAAAAAAAA1A/i-W9VIZkBQE/s1600/passiveaggressivememe.jpg" /></a></div>
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<b>Author's note:</b> I make this post as a 100% culprit of passive aggressive behavior. This is my form of self-discovery in realizing the true annoyance of passive aggressive behavior, and my oath to start saying what I truly mean.<br />
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What do these social media platforms have in common?<br />
a. Facebook<br />
b. Twitter<br />
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That's right! They are the beloved playing field of all things passive aggressive.<br />
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What if we all just simply said what we really mean? Straight up, no games, just what we literally mean.<br />
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My theory: The world would spin a great deal faster. At the very least, we would all achieve what we wanted from life much quicker.<br />
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I'm sure that everyone is rolling their eyes right now, silently yelling (or maybe out loud) that of course you hate passive aggressive posts and tweets, but guess what? It still happens.<br />
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Going a step beyond passive aggressive posts, I personally believe that it is people themselves that are the most confused. Does anyone even know what they truly want anymore? Maybe that's the root of the problem. We don't know what we want, so as soon as we actually get what we want, we toss it aside and mess everything up because we don't think we want it anymore. I bet that most people post ridiculous passive aggressive comments because they are just as confused as the anonymous identity of the recipient that their post is directed at.<br />
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Let's take this from a male/female perspective. Guys always complain that girls are confusing and don't make a lick of sense. Well, right back at you! Men are honestly the most infuriating creatures that have ever roamed the earth. If I had to be stuck with someone in a cage, I'd rather be stuck with a lion because at least we'd understand what we want from each other just fine.<br />
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The thing is, I'm good at playing games. Maybe that's why men think we're confusing. I almost always win because I'm only in it for the game, nothing more. But as soon as I face an opponent who plays games better than I do: game over. At that point it no longer becomes just a game, because my opponent plays so well that I now want what was originally just a game for me. Then I start trying to be honest about what I want but oh, wait...nope! I let my opportunity float away down the river of malarkey. It's in these moments that I wish everyone, including myself, would just be upfront and honest with each other so that way we all don't drag each other along until the end of time.<br />
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So, I'm making an oath to stop posting passive aggressive statements, to stop playing games with people, and to be honest. It's going to take effort and I'm probably the furthest point from perfect, but if we all make an effort to start being straight up with each other, life would be a whole lot easier.<br />
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Starting.......now, since this post was entirely passive aggressive.<br />
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Until next time,<br />
LeahAnonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12090993236140578742noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5571677182183784220.post-65098373980024080742014-04-08T13:54:00.000-07:002014-04-08T13:54:59.695-07:00Taking Nashville by a Storm: Spring Break 2014<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Wow, you went to Panama City Beach in Florida? You got totally wasted on spring break? I bet it was totally radical. I am sure your blurry, scantily clad memories completely changed your life for the better.</div>
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Personally, I chose to do something a little different this year, and it was the best spring break I have ever experienced. </div>
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But let's start at the beginning. </div>
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<b><span style="font-size: large;">Meet Rachel Nalepa: </span></b></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Rachel Nalepa in all of her glory.</span></div>
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God knew what He was doing when He placed Rachel and I on the same street growing up. We have been partners-in-crime since we were only <i>one year olds</i>. (Rachel is six months older than me and a grade above me... so she may have been two.) We had only been on this planet for approximately 12 measly months, and we already knew we were going to be stuck with each other for life. </div>
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Well, I'm sure if we could both talk at that age then that is what we would have said.</div>
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We lived on the same street for 18 years, until I moved a couple neighborhoods away during high school. Despite the fact that it would no longer take me approximately 1.4 minutes to run down to her house, nothing really seemed to change. Late night slumber parties, her mother's midnight quesadillas, laughing until our stomachs hurt during Will Ferrell movies, watching "The Proposal" more times than I could possibly count, making up weird dance moves and song lyrics on a Friday night... these things continued to frequent our daily lives despite the new distance between our houses.</div>
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However some good things do come to an end, as sad as that may be, and with Rachel and I both in colleges that are very far apart, our opportunities to spend time together have grown slimmer and slimmer. But this chick-a-dee has been in my life far too long for me to let her quietly slip through the cracks unnoticed. I couldn't imagine a life without her: she's my best friend. </div>
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So what did I do? I texted her mom and her sister and together we planned...</div>
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<b>A SURPRISE TRIP TO NASHVILLE TO VISIT RACHEL! </b></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Apparently I don't take normal pictures anymore.</span></div>
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Rachel's older sister told her that she was coming to visit for the week. So, when I arrived at the Nashville airport instead, Rachel stared at my face for a good five seconds before finally realizing it was me. *insert moments of freaking out here*</div>
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And thus, adventures began.</div>
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One of my favorite things that I did with Rachel was sit in on one of her classes at Belmont University. It was cool to take a college class with my best friend, and since she is graduating soon I know that it will never happen again. However, I was also on my spring break and didn't <i>really</i> feeling like learning, so I chose to opt out of sitting with her during her second class and instead gave myself a self-guided tour of the campus. Here are some highlights: </div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Belmont University's Prayer Chapel.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">McWhorter Hall. The class I took with Rachel was in a building behind this one.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Cool, artsy statue. Working that headpiece.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Belmont Mansion, located on the university grounds.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">A little bit about Belmont Mansion (Fun fact: Rachel has never visited Belmont Mansion).</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><strike>Winter </strike>Spring is coming.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Potter Hall.</span></div>
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I also ended up walking down Music Row by myself, all while creating some crazy fantasy in my head that I was going to get discovered, and decided that if someone wanted me to sing a country song on the spot then I would choose "Before He Cheats" by Carrie Underwood. Sometimes I wonder why I'm so strange.</div>
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I also took a trip over to Vanderbilt University, and fell in love with their beautiful campus. I wish I took photos while I was perusing the green lawns and stone buildings, but for some reason I got really nervous and so this is the only photo I ended up with:</div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Vanderbilt University on 21st Street.</span></div>
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Hey, at least I have something.</div>
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A lot of the time that we spent together in Nashville was in coffee shops, in her apartment watching "The Proposal" (yes, we really did watch it again), or in the movie theater to see "Frozen: The Sing-Along." Seeing the sing-along version of "Frozen" has truly changed my life forever and has transformed me as a person. I now know all of the lyrics to "Do You Want to Build a Snowman" and can annoy anyone on a given notice.</div>
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One of my favorite cafes/restaurants that we visited during the week was Loveless Cafe. Their biscuits were <i>to die for</i>. Our waitress was so nice that she let us take home an entire box of eight biscuits. The next day, when Rachel was at her morning class, I ate four biscuits. I didn't have the guts to admit to Rachel that I had consumed half of the box of biscuits. </div>
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While at the cafe, I brought my DSLR camera with me but of course my phone was dead, so we were awkwardly trying to take selfies in front of the sign with a DSLR...</div>
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...they were not working out at all. Do I know how to look normal? Clearly not. However, some kind man came over and offered to take our picture after witnessing our struggle.</div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Rachel and I standing in front of the sign at Loveless Cafe. Apparently it is also a motel...?</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Loveless Cafe is not complete without Cornhole, obviously. </span></div>
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We also found a "face in the hole" next to the cafe, so <i>of course</i> we had to partake in attempting to capture selfies with a DSLR there as well. </div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Just no.</span></div>
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So, after a second brutal failure, we both decided that the smartest decision would be to take each other's picture one at a time. To be honest, the results were just as bad as the selfies. I look like I don't have friends.</div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Hey, Mom! Look at all of my friends!</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Rachel's family truly loves her. Their faces say it all.</span></div>
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Spring Break 2014 was a #blessed and memorable week. Instead of acting like every other college student and drinking my life away, I was able to create hysterical memories with my best friend. </div>
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And seriously, who could pass up on "face in the hole" selfie opportunities? </div>
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With that said, I now leave you with a video of Rachel's musical talent. </div>
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Until next time,</div>
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Leah</div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12090993236140578742noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5571677182183784220.post-7368910708507695632014-03-20T09:34:00.000-07:002014-03-20T09:34:14.046-07:00Top 10 Travel Must-Haves: Beauty<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Today I thought I would take a break from my Blog Challenge posts to give you an insider's look into my travel must-haves. I will be posting a few "Travel Must-Haves" posts that pertain to different areas of packing so that you can get an overall perspective into my travel preparation thoughts. Heading out into the world and leaving home behind is a big deal, so let's make sure you have all of the essentials covered before doing so!</div>
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Now I present to you: Leah's Top 10 Beauty Travel Must-Haves (<b>IN NO PARTICULAR ORDER</b>).</div>
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1. Eos Smooth Sphere Lip Balm in “Sweet Mint” - $3.49</h3>
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I am in love with this lip balm! Its petite size is perfect for carrying and it fits almost anywhere, making it essential on my travel must-haves list. While studying abroad, this lip balm became a close buddy of mine and we went everywhere together. We were pretty exclusive. Additionally, it is a very long lasting balm, as I am <i>still</i> using the same balm that I bought last summer and used every day while in Europe. Talk about a great investment! This baby will last you a long time and is well worth the $3.49. </div>
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2. Neutrogena Makeup Remover Cleansing Towelettes - $6.99</h3>
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Oh the glory of these cleansing towelettes. I used to be a liquid makeup remover fan, but I have forever banned liquid remover from my life after discovering these gems. They are gentle on your face and not only remove your makeup, but cleanse your face from dirt and oils as well. I traveled to Morocco this past semester and the access to running water was limited, so my towelettes were a lifesaver because I didn't need water and soap to clean my face. Whether you're heading to Morocco or a more urban location for your travels, these cleaning towelettes will clean all of your makeup - waterproof included - and leave you feeling refreshed and clean!</div>
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3. Estee Lauder Resilience Lift Firming/Sculpting Eye Crème - $58.00</h3>
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You may be rolling your eyes at the sight of an anti-aging eye cream because I'm only 21 years old, but hear me out! My usage of anti-aging creams began about a year ago after I read an article stating that one of my favorite idols, Selena Gomez, used anti-aging creams. Her point of view was that it never hurts to start protecting your skin early, and I completely agree. Though this cream is on the expensive side, I see results almost overnight as it nourishes my fine lines and freshens my face. Your face gets wrinkles as you get older because the elasticity in your face loses water, so I'm sure most creams would be beneficial in protecting the water in the skin of your face and eyes, but I am simply in love with Estee Lauder's eye cream and the results I've seen. You can also buy smaller versions that are perfect and compact for travelling purposes (and cheaper)!</div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-rF6fm9bMEOs/UyJcsoM6wNI/AAAAAAAAAxI/udtLjKnspE0/s1600/mascara.gif" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-rF6fm9bMEOs/UyJcsoM6wNI/AAAAAAAAAxI/udtLjKnspE0/s1600/mascara.gif" /></a></div>
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4. Smashbox Full Exposure Mascara in “Jet Black” - $19.50</h3>
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I like to keep my makeup simple when I travel, so I only wear mascara on my eyes. With that said, I don't want to look like I don't have eyelashes either (because that's just plain unattractive, let's be real). This mascara is <i>perfect</i> for creating a natural look while making your eyes pop. My lashes are increased in both length and volume with this mascara, and that's something I haven't found until now. My lashes don't clump and the mascara stays on throughout the day. Seriously, TRY THIS MASCARA. It's worth the investment and you won't go back to another mascara, plain and simple. </div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-cNZnvBlzqm0/UyJcr9y4ffI/AAAAAAAAAwU/5yCaaRdCku4/s1600/blush.gif" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-cNZnvBlzqm0/UyJcr9y4ffI/AAAAAAAAAwU/5yCaaRdCku4/s1600/blush.gif" /></a></div>
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5. Clinique Blushing Blush Powder Blush in “Cupid” - $21.00</h3>
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This blush is heavenly. Are you looking for that perfect blush color that models seem to always carry and that you can never seem to replicate? Look no further! I've been using this blush for about 2 years now and it gives me that soft, natural glow that looks beautiful on everyone. You can also deepen the effect depending on how much of the blush you apply. For my travelling purposes and the natural makeup I stick to, I apply just a tiny bit to the apples of my cheeks and I'm set for the rest of the day. While other blushes make your face look too red or some awkward shade of color, I can assure you that Clinique's "Cupid" is a fantastic is a perfect shade. </div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-KYzJj1VZTyA/UyJct-hlhWI/AAAAAAAAAxE/kSXgG-PbhHg/s1600/powder.gif" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-KYzJj1VZTyA/UyJct-hlhWI/AAAAAAAAAxE/kSXgG-PbhHg/s1600/powder.gif" /></a></div>
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6. BareMinerals Matte Foundation Broad Spectrum SPF 15 in “Fairly Light” - $27.00</h3>
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This loose powder foundation is my absolute MUST when travelling. It covers blemishes and tired eyes perfectly with one quick swipe (seriously, I don't know how it does it but it has PERFECT coverage) and you still feel like you're not wearing makeup. I love the matte version because I have naturally oily skin, so it prevents my face from getting shiny throughout the day When travelling, skip the heavy liquid foundations, avoid caking makeup on your face and stick to BareMinerals' powder foundation. </div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-lIfTEWIAAgY/UyJcrugI9WI/AAAAAAAAAwY/mQozeqmMT-Y/s1600/concealer.gif" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-lIfTEWIAAgY/UyJcrugI9WI/AAAAAAAAAwY/mQozeqmMT-Y/s1600/concealer.gif" /></a></div>
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7. Revlon Photo Ready Concealer in “Light” - $9.99</h3>
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Best. Concealer. Ever. All of your under eye circles and blemishes will disappear in the blink of an eye with this magical concealer stick. When travelling, I love doing a quick swipe under my eyes and then covering with the BareMinerals powder foundation for a flawless finish that lasts all day. </div>
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8. China Glaze Nail Laquer with Hardeners in “For Audrey” - $7.50</h3>
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Who doesn't love the movie "Breakfast at Tiffany's?" This color is supposed to imitate the color of the iconic blue Tiffany & Co. box, and it looks absolutely beautiful. I love this color for travel because it is bright and pops against any outfit, making your day happier. You really only need one coat of this vivid color, but I like to apply two so that I really get the color's Tiffany hue on my fingernails. How can you resist? </div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ruo5ga3J0oc/UyJcsSVEqjI/AAAAAAAAAwk/c6MSM-WfIsw/s1600/dryshampoo.gif" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ruo5ga3J0oc/UyJcsSVEqjI/AAAAAAAAAwk/c6MSM-WfIsw/s1600/dryshampoo.gif" /></a></div>
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9. Tresemmé Fresh Start Renewing Dry Shampoo - $5.99</h3>
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If you take one thing from this list as an absolute <i>essential </i>for travelling, this is it. Who has time to wash their hair <i>every single day</i> when they're enjoying the beauty of their travels? Exactly, ain't nobody got time for that. Thanks to Tresemmé, you no longer have to have time for that either. This dry shampoo cleans the oils from your hair and allows you to skip a wash. It also doesn't leave white residue in your hair like baby powder or other dry shampoos. Plus, it's healthier to wash your hair every other day anyways! This is an absolute must for your travelling experiences, I promise.</div>
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10. Philosophy Field of Flowers Fragrance - $37.50</h3>
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Every should carry a good fragrance with them when travelling because it adds a fresh scent on top of deodorant. I personally love Philosophy's Field of Flowers because it is fresh and light and doesn't suffocate your nostrils. I suggest avoiding heavy perfumes because when travelling and constantly being on the move, you will want something light that is able to travel with you and not weigh you down by thick scents. Check it out, it's a beautiful fragrance! </div>
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Until next time,</div>
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Leah</div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12090993236140578742noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5571677182183784220.post-71164477313097236652014-03-09T14:05:00.000-07:002014-06-12T10:37:06.169-07:00Blog Challenge Day 6: Hey There, I'm a Sagittarius.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Day 6 Topic:</u> "Your zodiac sign and if you think it fits your personality."<br />
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Hello, my name is Leah and I am a Sagittarius. </div>
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First of all, I think zodiac signs are crap. I laugh every time I get to the end of a Cosmopolitan magazine and read the crappy, fabricated prediction of "what my month looks like," all thanks to my zodiac sign. If you are reading this and you believe in the power of the zodiac sign then more power to you. However, I could never believe that the specific day I was born can categorize and predict the rest of my life. </div>
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But hey, it's still entertaining to check out!</div>
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<b>My zodiac sign:</b> Sagittarius. </div>
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According to <a href="http://zodiac-signs-astrology.com/zodiac-signs/sagittarius.htm" target="_blank"><b>this</b></a> lovely website, there are characteristics of a Sagittarius that describe me perfectly and others could easily be describing a polar opposite person. </div>
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I'll start with the similarities. Here are some excerpts from the zodiac signs website that I completely agree with in terms of being similar to myself:</div>
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<i>"...their optimistic outlook and positive disposition..."</i></div>
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<i>"Despite hardships, Sagittarius is always optimistic that good things will happen tomorrow..."</i></div>
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<i>"Sagittarius have a vibrant, expansive personality..."</i></div>
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<i>"...they crave adventure and excitement and welcome change with open arms."</i></div>
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I think I am a very outgoing, adventurous person like Sagittarius describes, so kudos to the zodiac sign website. I believe that tomorrow is always a better day, and I find adventure and excitement in the unknown future.</div>
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Now let's check out the not-so-similar descriptions:</div>
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<i>"Sagittarius seem to be guided by luck, good things happen to Sagittarius..." </i></div>
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<i>"...they always look forward to the future, never dwelling on the past."</i></div>
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<i>"Sagittarius are detached from emotions because emotions hold a person back, they do not like to talk about their feelings, they simply experience them and move on." </i></div>
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Let me start by saying that I have absolutely NO LUCK WHATSOEVER. None. Sorry, Sagittarius, but I have never received any of the "luck" you apparently encounter all of the time. If you would like to start throwing some my way that would be pretty cool I guess.</div>
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Also, I like to reminisce a lot. I have had a wonderful life, and sometimes I daydream about the past, the people I may have lost contact with, the things I could have done differently, or a very happy moment that I cherish. To me, there's nothing wrong with remembering. However, I do look to the future and the amazing opportunities that tomorrow holds, so I do agree with that aspect.</div>
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While I'm not an overly emotional person, I do have emotions. They do exist. Shocking, I know. I disagree completely with the idea that "emotions hold a person back," because I believe we learn the most from our emotions. I may deal with my emotions more privately, but I think they are vital when learning from a situation in order to better oneself for the future.</div>
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So there you have it. While I'm not going to dissect <i>every </i>characteristic of a Sagittarius (because who wants to read a novel), I think that there are similarities and differences for everyone and their zodiac signs depending on how one views themselves. </div>
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Check it out for yourself and see what similarities and differences you have with your zodiac sign. It's quite an interesting read.</div>
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Until Day 7 of the Blog Challenge,</div>
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Leah</div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12090993236140578742noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5571677182183784220.post-61715161543370981532014-02-28T09:38:00.002-08:002014-02-28T09:38:35.603-08:00Elon Abbey<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.youtube.com/embed/tYQ5SLLFPY8?feature=player_embedded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div>
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Take a moment and enter Elon Abbey, the hub of aristocracy at Elon University.<br />
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This is a short (and I mean short) film I created for my Writing for Broadcast course. Our assignment was to create a spin-off of the popular television drama Downton Abbey. I loved shooting it because I am quite obsessed with the time period of Downton Abbey, and it just so happened that I bought that hat recently. Life is so peculiar.<br />
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I thought I would share it because I am quite pleased with how it turned out. Take a quick stroll through Elon Abbey and enjoy! Thanks for watching!Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12090993236140578742noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5571677182183784220.post-71022614987322363442014-02-27T13:10:00.000-08:002014-06-12T10:36:23.964-07:00Blog Challenge Day 5: Comfort Foods *YUM*<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-fJQ3_NA24Ow/Uw0HRgY4ofI/AAAAAAAAArw/EuiOttH0MYE/s1600/blog5.gif" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-fJQ3_NA24Ow/Uw0HRgY4ofI/AAAAAAAAArw/EuiOttH0MYE/s1600/blog5.gif" height="131" width="320" /></a></div>
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Here it is! I give to you Day 5 of the 30 Day Blog Challenge. What's funny is that I'm pretty sure the point of a 30 Day Blog Challenge is to blog<i> every day </i>for 30 days...but alas I have blatantly ignored that part of the challenge. On behalf of the wonderful Drake: "YOLO."<br />
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<u>Today's topic:</u> "Your favorite comfort foods and why."<br />
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Now this is a topic that I can write about.<br />
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Seriously, if there's one thing I'm absolutely passionate about in this world, it is the quality taste of some good, comforting munchies melting onto my taste buds. Yummy.<br />
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To be honest, I wish I was like my brother who was blessed with the "I don't like the majority of foods that are bad for you" disease. Life would be so much easier--and <i>healthier</i>. He doesn't do chocolate, cake, candy, and most ice cream flavors. Why wasn't I born like that? Then again, he doesn't eat anything <i>good </i>for him either. He doesn't do vegetables, most fruits, and anything weird that he hasn't tried before.<br />
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In the end, I cannot change who I am, and unlike my picky older brother I am a 110% all-things-food lover. I don't discriminate. (Minus the small fact that I'm a vegetarian).<br />
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However, there are some specific "comfort foods" that are the best of the best in my eyes. These delicious suckers make it impossible for me to deny their mouthwatering goodness whenever we are in the same room. So, without further ado, I present to you my all-star comfort foods.<br />
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1) <b>Ice cream. Specifically: Ben and Jerry's Strawberry Cheesecake ice cream.</b><br />
I'm in love with the little swirls of cinnamon found in a pint of Ben and Jerry's Strawberry Cheesecake. If I'm having a bad day, if I'm having problems with the male species (99% of my life), if I'm watching a good movie... there is absolutely <i>nothing </i>that could not be improved with a pint of Ben and Jerry's Strawberry Cheesecake at my side. Like I said before, though, I don't discriminate, and I know that if I was stuck on a desert island with only one food to live on, ice cream would be my partner-in-crime.<br />
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2) <b>The muffins from Acorn Coffee Shop at Elon University.</b><br />
Nothing goes better with a cup of coffee than a freshly baked muffin. I'm almost positive that I have tried almost if not every flavor of muffin that Acorn bakes. They are always sitting right by the checkout and I can't help but glance down at them as I'm buying my coffee, ultimately caving and deciding to add one of those fluffy goodies to my order.<br />
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3)<b> COFFEE!!!!!!</b><br />
I know that coffee is not a food, I wasn't born yesterday. But if you couldn't tell by my lack of ability to blog every day during a 30 day challenge, I don't like to play by the rules. So, I'm choosing coffee as my third favorite comfort food. If I need to be productive and get a lot of things done, you can bet that there is a cup of coffee chilling at my side. It's like a best friend that doesn't let you down. With that said, I would like to take this time to thank coffee for being the perfect pal. Thanks dude.<br />
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Until Day 6 of the Blog Challenge,<br />
LeahAnonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12090993236140578742noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5571677182183784220.post-9622705701696077862014-02-17T10:09:00.000-08:002014-06-12T10:44:26.860-07:00Blog Challenge Day 4: Views on Religion<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<u>Today's topic:</u> "Your views on religion."<br />
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...And now we get controversial.<br />
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<b>Foreword</b>: Please know that as I write this blog post I am <u><b>NOT</b></u> pushing my personal beliefs or views of religion on anyone else. I am merely retelling my story and my views of religion. Though I think it is absolutely vital to know the other point of view if you are nonreligious, if you are uncomfortable with the idea of reading about religious views I would suggest directing yourself to one of my other blog posts.<br />
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To answer straight up, yes, I am a very religious person. To this day I can easily picture the day I became a Christian. I was in 3rd grade and I was at church camp with my best friends. Our evening speaker ended his sermon by telling us that if we loved the Lord and wanted to spend our lives serving Him, that we should think about asking Him into our hearts. And so I did. I realized that before that moment, I had only considered myself a Christian because I went to church every Sunday with my family. After finally professing my faith that evening on the rickety, wooden steps outside of my cabin, I was overwhelmed with feelings of immense joy and fulfillment. I broke down in sobs next my camp counselor, who enveloped me in the warmest of hugs. I felt pure. It is something that typed words cannot fully express and one of my fondest memories of my childhood.<br />
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However, when it comes to the word "religion," I'm mortified with the negative connotation attached to it. When today's society thinks of religion, it immediately pictures clones of the Westboro Baptist Church members and their hateful protests against gay marriage, all whilst declaring that their horrifying acts are "an act of God's will."<br />
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This is large load of absolute crap.<br />
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First of all, God taught us to love. What those people are doing is the complete opposite of loving on all of the people of the world. If the world is striving towards world peace at some point in the future, our first move should be to ban the Westboro Baptist Church. Sorry, crazies, you are cordially uninvited to our peace party.<br />
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Another image that comes to mind when people hear the word "religion" is the Republican Tea Party. I would just like to point out that my grandmother was a hardcore Democrat and head-over-heels in love with the Lord at the same time. So you can knock that stereotype out of your head because I know without a single sliver of doubt in my mind that she's rocking it upstairs in Heaven right now. I love you, Grandma.<br />
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Today's society puts too much emphasis on the <i>idea </i>of "religion" and not what it really pertains to, which for me is my faith in God. That's it, bottom line. Where did that idea of religion go? As a Christian, I think that the word "religion" is a very broad and public display for an intimate and personal relationship with God.<br />
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However, because "religion" has become so warped in our society, people are beginning to dissociate the word from one's faith and belief in a higher power of the universe. According to a report released by the Public Religion Research Institute, 6 out of 10 Americans (59 percent) think that a religious person is "primarily about living a good life and doing the right thing."<br />
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For me, religion will forever remain a large, tacky poster board sign that automatically categorizes me as a person. Before people can even get to know me, they will have already given me characteristics and determined whether or not they will like me based on my association with Christianity. They will see me as homophobic, superficial, judgmental, intolerant and hypocritical.<br />
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If you know me as a person, you will know that these characteristics are far from true. One of my best friends is gay, for crying out loud (SHOUT OUT TO JESSE IMHOF, you're the greatest!). Just because I consider myself to be religious does not mean I am a indecent human being. So please, next time someone says they are religious, don't be quick to label them with a preconceived idea of what it means to be religious.<br />
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Until Day 5 of the Blog Challenge,<br />
LeahAnonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12090993236140578742noreply@blogger.com3